The Chestnut Festival
The last week of October
Castagna in Festa is a much-loved festival not only in Arcidosso, but throughout Mount Amiata. The event focuses on the chestnut, which has achieved divine status on Mount Amiata: statues dedicated to the chestnut tree have even been built in several towns in the area.
Thanks to the warm climate and fertile soil, the area grows some of the country's most coveted chestnuts. In fact, Amiata chestnuts are so good that they have obtained IGP status, an award given only to the best and most organically grown Italian products.
During the festival, held in autumn (early chestnut season), you will find the usual traditional music and dancing. But there is also a fashion show, artisan stalls, an antiques market and historical re-enactments in the fortress and the heart of medieval Arcidosso.
And then there is the abundance of chestnuts and not just by themselves. They are used to make chestnut beer, chestnut bread and a whole range of other delicious dishes typical of this part of the Maremma. You can also take guided tours through the chestnut groves with the farmers themselves.
But if you don't like chestnuts, don't despair. There are stalls selling other local products and lots of great wine to go around. Actually, this festival goes far beyond the humble chestnut and has become for locals and tourists alike a celebration of everything that is loved by those who live in this area and everything that makes this area so great, from its history and culture to its food and attitude to celebration.
