The collective imagination has always considered autumn to be the season of decadence, because it puts an end to the heats brought by summer; for others, however, it is a time of rebirth: the harvests and grape harvests proper to the period represent preparation for winter. But this is also the right season for traveling, discovering unique traditional locations and flavors.
We suggest some events scheduled for weekends in October between Lazio and Abruzzo, not far from Rome and easy to reach thanks to the A24/A25 highway exits.
Flavors of Autumn – Canistro Superiore
Canistro is a charming village in the province of L’Aquila with ancient origins known for its hot springs, its oligomineral water and chestnut groves. Easily reached from the Avezzano highway exit, as every year, in the village of Canistro Superiore, Sunday, October 20, the Flavors of Autumn Festival with its XXIII edition and with it the tastings of typical products of gastronomy, flavors&knowledges of the local culture related to the precious chestnut “Roscetta,” the flagship of this part of Valle Roveto. The festival gives voice to traditions and is a mixture of colors, sounds, re-enactment of ancient crafts, traditional dishes, customs and traditions that bring back ancient traditions.
The locality offers visitors historical and artistic beauties of high value and cultural interest, as well as several nature trails to explore, making it an ideal destination for all those who are looking for a trip dedicated to wellness, relaxation and contact with nature.
Along the Ancient Streets – Civitella Roveto
From Oct. 18 to 20 will be held in the town of Civitella Roveto, the 9th edition of the traditional autumn event Along the Ancient Streets, one of the most impressive festivals dedicated to delicious roasted chestnuts and local autumn specialties. This is also the occasion when the historic center becomes the protagonist, with the thousands of tourists invading the famous “rue,” i.e., the narrow streets of the town, and where the memory of the peasant civilization of the past is revived with the opening of private wine cellars to the public. In the small squares, set tables, decorations, marching band, chestnut festival, acrobats, musicians, jugglers and street actors will welcome the many visitors to enjoy a great food and wine experience. Easily reached from the Avezzano highway exit.
Chestnut Festival – Carsoli
In Tufo, a hamlet of the Municipality of Carsoli in the province of L’Aquila, the XVI Edition of the Chestnut Festival. Driving along the A24 highway and exiting at Carsoli, one can discover the hamlet of Tufo, which first appeared in the “Regesto dell’Abbazia di Farfa” in the year 1032, is composed of three localities that make up the urban agglomerations: Tufo Alto, Tufo Basso and Villetta (also known as Villa) a few hundred meters apart. Since 2016, it has become the center of a street art project,“Plasters,” in which many artists create murals, making it a true open-air museum.
The enchanted village – Montepagano
The village of Montepagano in the province of Teramo is the oldest hamlet of Roseto degli Abruzzi, an active and pulsating center, rich in traditions and events; it still preserves intact its medieval castle, perched on the Roseto hill, and many elements of its past among the streets of the historic center. Here from November 1 to 3 will take place 𝗜𝗹 𝗕𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗼 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗼: a Magical Tour through the streets of the town that will allow people to visit picturesque places, meet magical characters and participate in many activities. An event dedicated to Magicians and aspiring Magicians.
Potato Festival – Leonessa (Rieti)
On the slopes of Mount Terminillo, 120 kilometers from Rome, lies the medieval village of Leonessa, with its historic center made up of city gates, remains of walls and noble palaces dating from the period from the 16th to the 18th century. Here from October 11 to 13 the XXXIV edition of the LeonessaPotato Festival, a typical and particularly valuable product, takes place. Queen of the table for an entire weekend, stands will be set up for the occasion and it will be served in many variations along with other local, provincial and regional products. During the festival it will be possible to go mountain biking and trekking of various levels, there are all the ingredients to spend a pleasant mid-October weekend among art, nature, food and fun.
Truffle Festival – Canterano
Canterano is a small municipality in the province of Rome, a hidden gem, inhabited by less than 400 people, awarded the title of “Truffle City.” To avoid the phenomenon of depopulation, organized recreational and cultural activities have given rise to the Truffle Festival, now in its 11th edition, which encompasses slow food, culture, sustainability, solidarity, fun, all in one event. The event takes place during two fall weekends, Oct. 12/13 and Oct. 19/20 with the goal of donating the proceeds of the Sagra to charity. The entire menu is based on truffles, the excellence of the area and a classic of the season, but you can take advantage of the opportunity to take guided tours, learn about and admire one of the sixty-six truffle cities in Italy with its murals on building facades and art installations.
