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Sagra del Tartufo in Acqualagna: A Gourmet Guide to Italy’s Truffle Capital
- Alessandro Loja
- Mar 16
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 15
There’s something almost mystical about the aroma of fresh truffles. It clings to the air, rich and earthy, promising an explosion of flavor with every bite. For those who revere this culinary treasure, Acqualagna is the ultimate destination.
Located in the heart of Italy’s Marche region, this town isn’t just another truffle hub; it’s the beating heart of the industry, responsible for nearly two-thirds of Italy’s truffle production. And every year, it plays host to one of the most important truffle events in the world: the Fiera Nazionale del Tartufo Bianco, or White Truffle Fair.
The 2025 edition marks the 60th anniversary of this prestigious event, will take place over four weekends in November. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing truffles at their absolute peak, paired with world-class cuisine, live cooking shows, and an electric atmosphere, this is the festival to put on your calendar.
Acqualagna’s Deep-Rooted Truffle Tradition
While Alba might be the more famous name abroad, Acqualagna is the true epicenter of Italy’s truffle economy. Unlike other regions that rely on a single truffle season, Acqualagna’s diverse landscape produces truffles all year round. Here, truffle hunting isn’t just a profession—it’s a way of life. Generations of local foragers, known as tartufai, have passed down the secret trails, the best truffle spots, and the finely tuned instincts needed to work alongside their specially trained Lagotto Romagnolo dogs.
What makes the Fiera Nazionale del Tartufo Bianco stand out is that it’s not just a showcase for fresh truffles; it’s a deep dive into the culture and craftsmanship behind them. From the local Truffle Exchange, where traders determine real-time market prices, to expert-led workshops, visitors get an unparalleled look into what makes Acqualagna’s truffles so special.
What to Expect at the 2025 White Truffle Fair
When is the 2025 White Truffle Fair in Acqualagna?
The White Truffle Fair takes place during November weekends, more precisely:
1st - 2nd, 8th - 9th, 15th - 16th, 22nd - 23rd
Where will the White Truffle Fair in Acqualagna take place?
The White Truffle Fair in Acqualagna will take place in the town center, transforming it into a bustling marketplace of truffle vendors, gourmet stalls, and event spaces.
What can I expect at the White Truffle Fair in Acqualagna?
A lot of tasting opportunities! Here are a few highlights:
TRUFFLE MARKET
This is your chance to buy freshly unearthed white truffles directly from expert foragers.
LIVE COOKING SHOWS
Michelin-starred chefs demonstrate how to elevate simple dishes with truffle.
TASTING EXPERIENCES
Sample handmade pastas, cheeses, cured meats, and even desserts infused with truffle.
TRUFFLE HUNTING DEMONSTRATIONS
Join experienced tartufai and their dogs on a simulated hunt in the surrounding forests.
WORKSHOPS & TALKS
Learn how to recognize, store, and cook truffles like a professional.
A Food Lover’s Guide to Acqualagna’s Truffle Varieties
Acqualagna isn’t just about white truffles; its forests produce an incredible variety throughout the year. Here’s what every food enthusiast should know:
White Truffle (Tuber Magnatum Pico)
SEASON
October to January
FLAVOR PROFILE
Intense, garlicky, slightly nutty, with an aroma so powerful it transforms any dish instantly.
HOW TO ENJOY IT
Shaved raw over fresh pasta, risotto, or soft scrambled eggs.
Black Winter Truffle (Tuber Melanosporum Vitt)
SEASON
December to March
FLAVOR PROFILE
Earthy, chocolatey, with deep umami notes.
HOW TO ENJOY IT
Sliced thin over meats or infused into rich sauces.
Bianchetto Truffle (Tuber Borchii Vitt)
SEASON
January to April
FLAVOR PROFILE
Less pungent than white truffle, with a garlicky, slightly peppery kick
HOW TO ENJOY IT
Works well in creamy sauces or paired with fresh seafood.
Summer Black Truffle (Tuber Aestivum Vitt)
SEASON
June to August (with a secondary harvest in October-December)
FLAVOR PROFILE
Milder, nutty, and slightly mushroom-like.
HOW TO ENJOY IT
Perfect for truffle butter, oils, and lighter summer dishes.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
Arrive Early – The best truffles sell out fast, and early morning visits mean fresher selections.
Know Your Prices – The Truffle Exchange updates prices daily, so check in advance to avoid overpaying.
Bring Cash – Many smaller vendors don’t accept cards, and cash often gets you better deals.
Respect Truffle Etiquette – Never squeeze or poke truffles. Gently pick them up and smell them to judge freshness.
Plan Your Tastings – From truffle-infused cheeses to traditional tagliatelle al tartufo, pace yourself to enjoy as many flavors as possible.
There’s no substitute for tasting a truffle at the height of its season, and Acqualagna’s White Truffle Fair is the ultimate place to do it. Whether you’re watching an award-winning chef craft a perfect truffle dish, walking through the lively market inhaling its intoxicating aroma, or even witnessing a truffle dog in action, this festival is an experience every food lover should have at least once.
Mark your calendar for November 2025 and get ready to immerse yourself in Italy’s most revered truffle tradition. Acqualagna is waiting, with open arms and a plate of freshly shaved truffle.
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