Apricot Festival

On 4 and 5 July 2026, Rotondella – a stunning village on the Ionian coast of Basilicata, in the province of Matera – will celebrate one of the region’s iconic produce with the traditional Apricot Festival, an annual event that attracts visitors and food and wine enthusiasts from across Basilicata.

For two days, Piazza della Repubblica will become the heart of the event, hosting tastings, food and wine stalls, shows, live music and initiatives dedicated to promoting the Trisaia apricot, one of the Metapontino area’s most representative agricultural specialities.

The undisputed star of the festival will, of course, be the apricot, presented in a host of delicious forms: artisanal jams, traditional desserts, savoury dishes, local specialities and innovative recipes created by local producers and businesses. The free tastings will offer visitors the chance to discover all the nuances of this fruit, with its intense flavour and unmistakable aroma.

The programme also features engaging cookery demonstrations, during which chefs and cooking enthusiasts will show how to make the most of apricots in both traditional and contemporary recipes, as well as the historic pomological exhibition, dedicated to the varieties grown in the local area.

One of the most eagerly awaited moments of the event is the presentation of the ‘Golden Apricot’ award, a prize that celebrates the commitment of farmers and recognises the finest local produce, helping to preserve an agricultural tradition deeply rooted in Rotondella’s history.

To enhance the festive atmosphere, there will be no shortage of concerts, shows and musical entertainment throughout the two evenings, transforming the historic centre into a place of gathering, conviviality and fun.

The Apricot Festival also offers the perfect opportunity to discover Rotondella, known as the ‘Balcony of the Ionian Sea’ due to its extraordinary panoramic setting. As you stroll through the village’s narrow streets, you can admire picturesque views, learn about local traditions and be charmed by the hospitality of the people of Basilicata.

Combining flavour, culture and tradition, the 2026 Apricot Festival reaffirms its status as one of the most important food and wine events of the summer in Basilicata, showcasing the identity of the region through one of its most prized fruits.