Tortellino and Tripe Festival in Cavallano

A local district festival in the heart of the Val d'Elsa

The Tortellino and Tripe Festival in Cavallano takes place in the village of the same name within the Municipality of Casole d'Elsa, in the province of Siena, nestled in the hills of the Val d'Elsa, Tuscany. It is organized by the Contrada Cavallano, one of the districts that competes in the Casole d'Elsa horse Palio. For the locals, this festival is much more than just a culinary event; it is a gathering that strengthens the identity of the small village while raising funds and energy for the district's activities throughout the year.

Traditional dishes: tortellini and tripe

As the name suggests, the two main stars of the table are tortellini and tripe, two pillars of Tuscan popular cuisine. The tortellini, served in broth or dry, and the tripe prepared according to local recipes are the heart of the menu, accompanied by other typical dishes and wines from the Sienese hills. The festival's kitchen focuses on authenticity and generous portions, in the true spirit of the countryside.

The evening program

The festival spans three days, with the bar opening around 7:30 PM and dinner served from 8:00 PM. The program alternates between convivial moments and entertainment:

• Friday — bar opening, dinner, and live music late in the evening;
• Saturday — bar opening, dinner, and DJ set to dance until late;
• Sunday — guided trek in the morning through the Val d'Elsa hills with an environmental guide, followed by lunch at the festival area.

A traditional raffle accompanies the evenings, usually drawn between dinner and the music, with prizes provided by the district.

An event to discover

Far from the major tourist circuits, the Tortellino and Tripe Festival is the ideal opportunity for those looking to experience an authentic side of the Sienese countryside, characterized by genuine flavors, warm hospitality, and the hilly landscape typical of this part of Tuscany. The combination of food, music, and the Sunday excursion makes it suitable for both those seeking evening conviviality and those who love nature and trekking.