Scala‘s 48th Chestnut Festival Celebrates Tradition and Autumnal Flavors
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Teh picturesque village of Scala, nestled on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, is preparing for a weekend steeped in tradition and the rich aroma of roasted chestnuts. the 48th edition of the annual Chestnut Festival kicks off on Saturday,October 18th,and continues through Sunday,October 19th,offering a vibrant celebration of local culture,cuisine,and community spirit.
The festival, a cornerstone event for Scala – the oldest village on the Amalfi Coast – promises two days filled with events, music, traditional games, and, of course, an abundance of chestnuts in every form. Gastronomic kiosks and exhibitions showcasing local products will open at 5:00 PM today, setting the stage for a culinary journey dedicated to the versatile chestnut.
A Culinary Homage to the Chestnut
the festival’s menu is a true testament to the culinary creativity inspired by the chestnut and the traditional cuisine of Scala. Attendees can indulge in a diverse array of dishes, including chestnut gnocchi with butter and sage, pasta and potatoes allardata alla scalese, a hearty chickpea, chestnut, and mushroom soup, and even chestnut meatloaf. Savory options extend to sausage and broccoli sandwiches, while those with a sweet tooth can savor chestnut tarts and jams, culminating in the classic delight of roasted chestnuts.
Traditional Games, Music, and Community Spirit
Beyond the gastronomic delights, the festival offers a rich program of cultural activities. Starting at 5:30 PM on Saturday, traditional games will take place in the town square, providing entertainment for both adults and children and harking back to the village’s ancient customs.
at 6:00 PM,the square will come alive with the sounds of ‘A Paranza r’o Tramuntana,a popular music group bringing the rhythm and folklore of the region to the historic center. The afternoon culminates in a test of strength and teamwork at 7:00 PM with the traditional tug of war, a challenge that unites the entire community.
The evening will reach its peak at 8:30 PM with a concert by EMILIANA CANTONE & MR. HYDE in town Hall Square, promising an evening filled with the vibrant energy of Neapolitan music.
Family Fun and a Grand Finale on Sunday
sunday, October 19th, begins with a special event for the younger attendees. At 11:30 AM, the children’s show “Here are the Clowns”, presented by the Attic Teatro dell’Orcowithin the project “Ablative | Wind project”, will take the stage in Piazzetta San Lorenzo.
The afternoon mirrors Saturday’s format, with kiosks reopening at 5:00 PM to offer another prospect to enjoy the chestnut-based delicacies.Traditional games return at 5:30 PM, followed by a performance by “Song ro’ Sud” at 6:00 PM, offering another exciting exploration of Southern Italian sounds.
the highlight of Sunday arrives at 7:30 PM with the always-popular donkey racing, a hilarious and engaging spectacle that captivates audiences of all ages. The festival will conclude with a grand finale at 8:30 PM in Piazza Municipio, featuring a Dj Set by Eddie JWarner, whose “Happy Music” will provide a vibrant soundtrack to the final evening.
The Scala Chestnut festival is more than just an event; it’s a living expression of a community deeply connected to its roots, celebrating local products and traditions with passion and genuine hospitality. It’s an unmissable experience for those seeking authentic folklore, autumnal ambiance, and the beauty of one of Italy’s most evocative villages.
