Tavolata Sotto le Stelle Feast

A communal feast under the Lunigiana sky

Every summer, the village of Arpiola, in the municipality of Mulazzo (Province of Massa-Carrara, Tuscany), transforms into a vibrant celebration venue for the Tavolata Sotto le Stelle. In the park of the Centro Giovanile A.N.S.P.I. San Giuseppe, along Via del Municipio, long outdoor tables are set up where the community gathers for two evenings of great food, music, and joy. It is an authentic folk festival, deeply rooted in village life and the celebrations in honor of Saint Peter.

The flavors of the Apuan hinterland

The heart of the event lies in the traditional local dishes, prepared by the volunteers of the Youth Center. Lunigiana cuisine is among the most distinctive in Tuscany, offering rustic yet flavorful specialties: from testaroli with pesto to herb pie (torta d'erbi), from rice bombs to tortelli, and traditional peasant desserts. Taking a seat at the long table means savoring the hospitality of a region where conviviality remains a daily value.

Music and dancing until late

Each dinner is accompanied by a musical program that gets everyone, young and old, on their feet. The festival bridges generations: younger crowds enjoy the DJ sets, while fans of ballroom dancing can enjoy live orchestras. The atmosphere remains that of a genuine village feast, where everyone knows each other and visitors are welcomed with warmth.

A tradition spanning over twenty years

Now in its 26th edition, the Tavolata Sotto le Stelle has become a staple of the Mulazzo summer. Organized by the Centro Giovanile A.N.S.P.I. San Giuseppe of Arpiola, it is a prime example of how local associations keep traditions alive and add value to community spaces. For those visiting Lunigiana in summer, it is the perfect opportunity to discover the authentic hospitality of Mulazzo, far from the most crowded tourist circuits.

Mulazzo and Lunigiana

Mulazzo is one of the historic villages of Lunigiana, a land of castles and ancient Malaspina lordships. Visiting the Tavolata Sotto le Stelle can be the starting point for exploring the village, its churches, and the landscapes of the Massa-Carrara hinterland, nestled between the sea and the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines.