Italian culinary festivals highlight regional specialties and charitable causes

Chef Michele De Blasio, a Michelin‑starred chef at Volta del Futuro in Vietri, presented a dish of spaghetti with colatura di alici and lemon, drawing inspiration from the Notte delle Lampare – a summer rite in Cetara that honors local fishermen and the centuries‑old tradition of anchovy‑based fish sauce.

On 21 July, the 16th Notte dei Culatelli took place at the Antica Corte Pallavicina in Polesine Parmense. The event showcased Culatelli di Zibello, featured a cocktail dinner, and presented awards to chef Umberto Bombana (8½ Bombana, Hong Kong), Dalla Group CEO Andrea Pontremoli, paralympic champion Giulia Ghiretti, among others. Proceeds supported the charity “Noi per Loro,” assisting children in pediatric oncology.

Both festivals underline Italy’s dedication to preserving regional gastronomy while linking culinary excellence to cultural heritage and charitable fundraising.