Chestnuts, Autumn, and Magic in Combai

Every October, the charming hilltop village of Combai, in the Veneto region, comes alive with the scent of roasted chestnuts and the warmth of local traditions. The Festa dei Marroni di Combai celebrates one of the area’s most beloved autumn treasures, the Marrone di Combai IGP, a prized variety of chestnut known for its sweetness and delicate flavor.

I visited the festival two years ago, and it was one of those experiences that perfectly capture the essence of fall in northern Italy. Although I couldn’t go this year (since I’m currently in Germany), the memories, the photos, and the atmosphere are still vivid in my mind .

Where and When

The festival usually takes place in October, lasting for about three weeks, in Combai, a small village surrounded by vineyards and chestnut forests in the province of Treviso. The whole village turns into a celebration spot, with narrow alleys filled with food stalls, local artisans, and live entertainment.

What to Eat and Drink

Of course, the stars of the show are the roasted marroni, sweet, smoky, and slightly crispy on the outside. But there’s much more to taste:

Chestnut Lasagne

Chestnut gnocchi and tagliatelle

Chestnut polenta with cheese or local salumi

Chestnut cakes and desserts

The famous Birra al Marrone, a chestnut-flavored craft beer

Local wines from the area, including Prosecco DOCG and other wines from the hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene

Everything is made with love and local ingredients, often prepared by village associations and families.

Local Products and Market Stalls

Walking through the streets, you’ll find stands selling artisan products: honey, jams, chestnut flour, handmade crafts, and natural cosmetics. There’s also a market with local farmers offering fresh seasonal products, and of course, bags of Marroni di Combai to take home.

Activities and Events

The festival isn’t only about food. There are theater performances, folk music, and dances, as well as guided walks through the chestnut woods, where you can learn about the tradition of chestnut picking. Families and children especially love the themed walks and the small puppet shows or local storytellers bringing old legends to life.

A Walk in the Chestnut Woods

One of my favorite parts of the experience was the chestnut forest walk, surrounded by golden leaves and the sound of crunching paths underfoot. You can follow trails that start right from the village, often with stops for tastings and small viewpoints overlooking the hills, the perfect way to spend a crisp autumn afternoon.

Practical Tips

If you’re planning to visit the festival in Combai, in the Veneto region, there are a few practical things to keep in mind. The easiest way to get there is by car, especially if you want to explore the surrounding hills, but you can also reach nearby towns like Conegliano or Vittorio Veneto by train and continue from there.

Since the village is small and the festival attracts many visitors, parking is usually organized outside the center, and on busy days access may be regulated in some cases, shuttle services are available to make things easier, especially on weekends.

While many stands may accept cards, it’s always a good idea to bring some cash with you, just in case. Comfortable shoes are definitely recommended, not only for walking through the narrow streets of the village but also if you want to explore the nearby chestnut woods.

Before your visit, it’s also worth checking the official program: many activities, tastings, and even some dishes are available only on specific days or require reservation. And before you leave, don’t forget to buy some local products it’s the best way to take a little piece of this autumn atmosphere home with you. More info here: https://www.combai.it/festa-dei-marroni/

Why You Should Visit

The Festa dei Marroni in Combai is not just a food festival; it’s a warm, authentic expression of local life. It’s about community, nature, and celebrating simple pleasures, good food, good wine, and good company. If you find yourself in northern Italy in October, don’t miss this charming event. Bring a cozy sweater, an empty stomach, and maybe a basket for a few chestnuts, roasted or fresh! It is perfect for everyone: adults, kids, friends, or couples. Have you ever been? Share your experience in the comments!