Vaglio Pettinengo Chestnut Festival

The "queen" of chestnut festivals in the Biella area

When autumn paints the hills of the Biella region in shades of red and gold, the village of Vaglio, in the municipality of Pettinengo (Province of Biella, Piedmont), transforms into the chestnut capital. The Vaglio Pettinengo Chestnut Festival is one of the longest-running and most beloved events in the area: so deeply rooted that it has earned the affectionate title of the "queen" of chestnut festivals. Organized with passion by the Pro Loco Vaglio Pettinengo, it is the traditional October feast that celebrates a humble yet precious fruit, which for centuries formed the basis of the diet for the local hill and mountain communities.

The "Atelier del castagno" and De.Co. delicacies

The gastronomic heart of the festival is the Atelier del castagno, where Pro Loco volunteers serve freshly roasted chestnuts, either plain or flavored with rum, grappa, and genepì. Alongside the classic roasted chestnuts, you will find a universe of chestnut-based sweets that have obtained the De.Co. (Municipal Denomination of Origin) status:

• Syruped and flavored chestnuts (with grappa, rum, or genepì)
• Chestnut jam and preserves
• Traditional biscuits such as cantun and carét
• Typical desserts like valiotto, catagnelle, and turlino
• The Vagliesa, a cake made with chestnuts, chestnut jam, and dark chocolate
• Marron brulè, fritters, and other autumn treats

Market, music, and village atmosphere

On the Sunday of the festival, the village comes alive with the Salotto della Bontà, a quality market dedicated to local products and handicrafts, accompanied by plenty of music: over the years, the autumn notes of the Michael's Angels group have provided the soundtrack to the festivities, amidst tastings and strolls through the village. There are also moments designed for the little ones, such as the famous Vaglio mini-racetrack, where children can try their hand at racing without a license. The event combines gastronomic tradition with cultural insights and environmental awareness, featuring exhibitions and meetings dedicated to the chestnut and the local territory.

A staple of the Biella region

More than just a simple village feast, the Vaglio Pettinengo Chestnut Festival is an opportunity to discover an authentic corner of the Biella area, amidst centuries-old chestnut groves, ancient flavors, and the warm hospitality of the Pro Loco. A day to be experienced at a slow pace, letting yourself be guided by the scent of roasted chestnuts.