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If one more major upcoming event gets canceled, I’m going to scream! Not really, as I completely understand the need for safety in these uncharted times. As of now, Italy's International Alba White Truffle Fair and the Turin Chocolate Festival are still a go. Both of these delightful opportunities for outings last through several weekends, so you’ve got plenty of time to plan on going if you're stationed in Italy!
The International Alba White Truffle Fair takes place Oct. 10 - Dec. 8 in Alba, Italy and celebrates the gems of nature, white truffles. This food item, considered a luxury, has a strong earthy flavor and is harvested from the earth using trained dogs to sniff out their location. For eight weeks, the town of Alba and the excellence of food are celebrated in a grand way. Since 2017, the city has earned the UNESCO title of “Creative City for Gastronomy.” The city ships both truffles and wine worldwide, so you know they mean business.
If you have the pleasure of visiting, be sure to check out the World Market. Admission is 4 euros and an additional 9.50 euros to combine admission with a wine tasting. You’re in Italy, so you probably should drink as much wine as you can handle. Other opportunities include foodie moments, dinners, concerts, folklore events and so much more.
The best part about this festival is the incredible location. Be sure to check out the surrounding area, which includes an abundance of culture, art, nature and outdoor activities. There are also several Michelin-star restaurants and plenty of cobblestone streets to wander. The wine, truffles and gorgeous surroundings are sure to lull you into a state of extreme contentment here. You may never want to leave!
You should at least go far enough to make it to the Turin Chocolate Festival. It’s just over an hour away from Alba and takes place Oct. 30 - Nov. 8. Locally known as Cioccolatò, this is the place to be if you’re a chocolate lover. Learn about the history of chocolate, sample way too much and get to know the local culture. Head to Piazza San Carlo to see all the vendors and exhibitions. You can also go down Via Roma street for more.
The history of chocolate in Turin dates back to 1560, when Emanuele Filiberto di Savoia created the first gianduiotto (ingot shaped chocolate) and offered hot chocolate as a drink. With centuries of perfection, numerous master chocolatiers hard at work and a festival dedicated solely to chocolate, you know you’re about to taste some of the most decadent chocolates the world has to offer in Turin.
If you love truffles, chocolate, or wine, or you just want a reason to leave the house, plan a visit to Italy to make your taste buds sing and dance. The beautiful scenery, culinary delights and festive atmosphere are sure to pull your right out of your coronavirus blues. My sincerest apologies if these events get canceled as well. You may just have to buy a bunch of food from the local store and pretend you are in Italy for a few days. Might I suggest ample amounts of wine?
