#ARTMOMENT: Sagra: A Local Festival

Sagra

“Le Sagre” are folk festivals celebrating local culture and food. Throughout Italy and especially in Umbria, you can find wonderful local specialties cooked and served up by local volunteers. These hard workers are very proud of their heritage and tradition, and cheerfully offer their time. My favorites so far have been for both the sagras for duck and snails — not cooked in the French way (which I also love), but in a spicy tomato broth.

Usually there is a live band and dancing as well. Rich in history and culture, these festivals are a beautiful way to engage in #ladolcevita.

#ARTMOMENT: An interpretation of Italian culture and history through the mind of an American.

#ARTMOMENT: Penultimus in Assisi

Penultimus

The penultimate festival of the ancient practice of roasting a large calf and playing folk music from Puglia called “Pizzica.” And men in skirts. At the Rocchiccola (Rocca Minore).

#ARTMOMENT: An interpretation of Italian culture and history through the mind of an American.

#ARTMOMENT: L’Olio Nuovo

Olio Nuovo

During the month of November, many cities like #Assisi celebrate the arrival of the “New Oil,” the first gentle press of the olive fruit. This first batch has a deep, pungent odor and leaves a sharp aftertaste in the back of your throat. The flavor is exquisite and can be used to complement pasta, mozzarella, and of course just simply poured over bread. #olionuovo

#ARTMOMENT: Durante il mese di Novembre, molti paesi come #Assisi festeggiano l’arrivo dell’olio nuovo; la prima pressattura del frutto dell’olivo. L’olio è pungente e lascia un retrogusto di piccante nella gola. Il sapore è così distinto che può essere utilizzato anche solo per condire la pasta, la mozzarella, oppure semplicemente per fare la bruschetta. #olionuovo

#ARTMOMENT: An interpretation of Italian culture and history through the mind of an American.