Who doesn’t love Italy? With so many things to see, coupled with beautiful countryside and internationally renowned cuisine, it’s a place where you can go again and again and again.
This article, a supplement to out “What to See When” and Destinations sections talks about some festivals and events in Italy that you may not know about. Definitely worth reading for when the time comes, as attending events such as these often add so much more depth and flavour – no pun intended – to your holiday adventures.
—-
November is the off-peak tourist season in Italy, making it the perfect fall destination for anyone who enjoys crisp weather and a lack of crowds. Additionally, traveling to Italy this time of year allows you to participate in a number of popular local and tourist-free autumn events. From harvest-time truffle fairs to lively cultural festivals that celebrate the start of the performing arts season, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in Italian culture this November.
November is truffle season in Italy, especially in and around the Piedmont region, and to celebrate the fall harvest, the Fiera Internazionale Tartufo Bianco D’Alba (Alba White Truffle Festival) is held from early October through late November each year. Considered one of the biggest truffle events in the country, the Alba White Truffle Festival features a wide range of truffles including the highly-coveted Tartufo Bianco, an aromatic and flavorful variety that’s one of the most expensive truffles worldwide. This colorful festival is held in the medieval Tuscan town of San Miniato on the second, third, and fourth weekends in November. Craft stands, entertainment, and restaurants feature the celebrated truffles during the fair, and you can even take part in a truffle hunt where you can pick and eat your own.
November is also the height of the chestnut harvest season in many Italian towns and villages. Piancastagnaio, in the Province of Siena, hosts this festival from October through early November each year, when you can enjoy roasted, boiled, and dried chestnuts while perusing local art and vendor stands. Afterward, don’t miss the special fall menus at regional restaurants, which highlight truffles, chestnuts, and wild mushrooms, and be sure to look for special harvest dishes served on Sundays throughout the month as well.
See more in the full article, below..