Pumpkin Festival on Lake Varese: it's a tradition in Gavirate, with markets and specialities of Lombardy cuisine

Say October and you've already said three things: foliage, chestnuts and... pumpkin. In fact, how could we not mention this delicious autumn vegetable that accompanies Italians in the kitchen between September and November? There are an infinite number of dishes that can be prepared using this ingredient: from the ever-present pumpkin tortelli (strictly with amaretto in the filling) to pumpkin risotto (excellent when paired with gorgonzola) to pumpkin velouté, pleasantly warm on cold autumn evenings. All of Italy celebrates pumpkin at this time of year, but there are municipalities in our country that do it better than others. Among these is undoubtedly Gavirate, in the province of Varese, where the legendary Pumpkin Festival is held every year.

For those visiting Varese in October or for those lucky enough to be staying in one of the many flats for sale in Varese, the Gavirate Pumpkin Festival is a free gastronomic event not to be missed. It is considered one of the most beautiful and famous pumpkin festivals in Italy and every year, for four consecutive Sundays, it offers specialities of the ancient Lombard tradition, strongly linked to this vegetable, revisited in a modern key.

Among the most popular first courses at the event's food stand (open from 11.30 a.m.) are pumpkin tortelli, followed by pumpkin risotto and gnocchi with meat sauce. Among the main courses, a prominent place is occupied by dishes accompanied by delicious pumpkin creams. The meal ends on a sweet note, with exquisite cakes and biscuits all made from pumpkin.

But one certainly does not live on pumpkin alone. That is why at the Pumpkin Festival in Gavirate in the province of Varese, in addition to the stand, there are also the ever-present markets (open from 10 a.m.), each year with different gastronomic specialities and typical regional products. And since the Gavirate Pumpkin Festival is held in October, it is also possible to participate in the chestnut festival during the event. And again, for lovers of good music there is the Disco Fair, where you can buy your favourite music also in vinyl. The side events are rounded off with a mycological exhibition and a photo exhibition.

It could almost sound like an event dedicated only to gourmets. But it is not. The Pumpkin Festival offers an adrenaline-pumping experience for the bravest: a climbing wall where you can learn to climb or show off your climbing skills. For a memorable competition, you can also take part in the curious Flying Pumpkin Tournament. And for the children? No problem: an unforgettable experience on tender ponies is dedicated to them.

Finally, taking advantage of your visit to Gavirate for the Pumpkin Festival, we recommend you visit its historical centre to admire the beauty of its churches. Such as the Church of the Holy Trinity or the Parish Church of St John the Evangelist. Built during the 15th century, the church houses an interesting organ built in 1901 by Vincenzo Mascioni. From its churchyard you can admire a beautiful view of the small town and among the roofs of the houses you can see the former Palazzo Maggioni-Puricelli Guerra, former residence of Besozzi - Visconti - Litta - Borromeo - Arese.