Get your spoons ready, and get ready to cheer for your district: on Sunday 20 September 2026, starting at 12:00, the Courtyard of the Castle of Villanterio (PV) once again becomes the stage for the Palio dei Risotti, the culinary contest that every year brings the whole town together.

Seven districts, seven risottos, one winner. That's the formula that has made this event one of the most beloved autumn appointments in the Pavia area, a mix of culinary tradition, neighbourhood pride and the simple joy of being together.

Seven districts, one winner

The seven districts (Rioni) of Villanterio will once again compete ladle to ladle, bringing their handed-down recipes, passion and a pinch of friendly rivalry to the table in the race for the title of Best Risotto 2026. Last year's winner was the Commenda district: will it manage to defend its title, or will the Palio change hands this year? One thing is certain: the goal is to bring the whole town to the Castle, to taste the risottos, meet friends and, above all, cheer for their district.

An exceptional jury and the audience award

This year the organisers have raised the bar: the risottos will be judged by the prestigious Confraternita del Risotto (Risotto Brotherhood), led by Grand Master Pietro Bolognesi. The Brotherhood will taste and evaluate the dishes prepared by the seven districts and decide the winner of the Palio dei Risotti 2026. But the experts won't have the only say: a special Audience Award will also be given to the risotto that receives the most votes from visitors. One more good reason to try them all, compare them and choose your favourite.

Surprise trophies for the participating districts

For this edition of the Palio, brand-new trophies have been designed: original, innovative and created specifically to represent the identity of Villanterio. The details remain a secret until the day of the event — the only way to find out is to be there, in the Castle courtyard.

Music all day long with Sam Forni

The festivities will be accompanied by young accordionist Sam Forni, with a surprising repertoire ranging from waltz to boogie-woogie, from pizzica to techno music: a blend of tradition and modernity designed to keep the whole day going.

Food and conviviality

Of course, the Palio dei Risotti isn't just about rice: throughout the day a well-stocked food stand will offer sandwiches with salamella and frankfurters, chips, beer, wine and soft drinks. It's the perfect occasion to come with the family, call your friends, gather around the table and wear the colours of your favourite district: the Palio is, above all, a day to come together and experience the traditions of Villanterio.

How to book a table

Tables are limited and bookings will be accepted until they run out. You can book by scanning the QR Code on the event poster, by sending a WhatsApp message to 344 178 4389, or by filling in the online form. To make sure you don't miss your spot at the Castle, it's best not to wait until the last minute.

Villanterio, whose side are you on?

Choose your district, taste the risottos, vote for your favourite and make your support heard: on Sunday 20 September, the Castle of Villanterio belongs to everyone.

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