Crunchy leaves changing colors, sippable warm drinks packed with fun flavors — what’s not to love about fall? From Barolo Weeks to National Seafood Month, there’s always something to celebrate. But what about the season, or truly just October, itself? It turns out Italians know a thing or two about celebrating all month long. Let’s dive into two October-centered celebrations in Italy: Le Ottobrate Romane in Rome, and Ottobrata Zafferanese in Sicily.
Le Ottobrate Romane
Heard all around Rome at the beginning of autumn is the phrase Che splendida ottobrata, or “what a wonderful October.” This transitional month, for Romans, is a second summer — a magical time of bright and sunny days with mild and breezy evenings. This communal love of October has been around for quite some time.
In the 19th century, Romans would celebrate the end of the grape harvest with festivals and feasts. These celebrations are believed to have descended from the Bacchanalia feasts of the ancient Romans, which honored the Greco-Roman god of wine Bacchus, and the changing of the seasons. Throughout October, it was common to see small groups of people leaving the city for a scampagnata or gita fuori porta: a day trip in the countryside outside of the city walls.
The traveling groups would often be carried by a carettella: an egg-shaped, horse-drawn carriage decorated with rattles and cowbells. Young women with hats covered with flowers or feathers would ride in the cart. The woman sitting next to the driver was the Bellona, while the others were called the Minenti. Relatives and friends would follow along on foot, often singing, playing, and dancing.
These Ottobrata celebrations were as purely fun as can be. The entire city seemed to celebrate the whole month long, with an abundance of food and, especially, wine. Gnocchi, lamb, and tripe were sure to be seen at almost every table. Bocce and other games were played, and dancing was a sure part of any celebration.
Today, Romans (and Italians alike!) still journey into the countryside for a mid-autumn scampagnata. While you might not see a carettella with cowbells, there are plenty of easy day trips outside of Rome and sagre, or food festivals, around the country celebrating this time. One such sagre is the famous Ottobrata Zafferanese in Sicily.
Ottobrata Zafferanese: Sicily's Fall Food Festival
Returning for its 44th year, the Ottobrata Zafferanese is one of the most important gastronomic events in Southern Italy. Every Sunday in October in the small volcanic village of Zafferana, this “true experience of flavors” highlights the excellence of Sicily, both in food and beverages. Traditional dishes and local delicacies are on display: honey, mushrooms, chestnuts, grapes, apples, and wine. Chefs host cooking shows, and a family-friendly area welcomes little ones to learn about the region’s traditions. With food stands stretching across a span of piazze and streets, street food is celebrated in its best form.
October is a beloved time in Italy. Whether you’re trying out a scampagnata to see the area outside of your own city or exploring a local sagre, celebrate October the Italian way: enjoying nature with plenty of delicious food. Stop by your local Eataly, order local delivery, or shop online for all our Fall favorites.