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THE FESTIVAL OF THE "IN": TASTING THE AUTHENTIC FLAVORS OF COSSANO BELBO




Born from a brilliant and witty play on words to celebrate all the local delicacies that end with the traditional Piedmontese suffix "IN," the Sagra degli IN has grown into one of the most eagerly anticipated and original spring events in the Langhe. This is far from a casual village fair; it is an elite culinary journey into the heart of the scenic Belbo Valley. Featuring live baking shows with top masters of the craft, open-air tasting routes through the town squares, and lively musical performances, this festival celebrates authentic heritage with incredible energy and warmth.

📍 Location and 2026 Celebration Dates

If you are planning your spring holiday itinerary through the hills, here are the official details for your calendar:

  • Where it takes place: The historical center and Piazza Giovanni Balbo in Cossano Belbo (Cuneo).
  • When it takes place: Traditionally held in mid-May. The official events for the upcoming edition will run from Friday, May 15, to Sunday, May 17, 2026, with the main gourmet tasting routes filling the streets during the weekend afternoons and evenings.

🍽️ The Culinary Route and Master Bakers

For this special weekend, the ancient stone village transforms into a massive open-air kitchen. By purchasing tasting tokens at the main entrance gates, you can follow the gastronomic stations to sample the true signature dishes of Langhe tradition.

The quality of the ingredients here is unmatched. All the artisanal focaccini and baked goods are prepared fresh on-site using the world-famous organic, stone-ground flours from the historical local mill, Mulino Marino. Furthermore, the main squares host live show cookings led by celebrated TV chefs and master bakers who share the secrets of achieving the perfect dough rise. The celebration reaches its peak in the evening with pop-rock concerts and a spectacular musical fireworks display.

🗝 Local Insider Advice

If you want to experience the Sagra degli IN completely stress-free, we highly recommend arriving in Cossano Belbo by late afternoon on Saturday or early morning on Sunday. The food tokens tend to sell out very quickly around prime dinner hours, so we suggest purchasing them immediately upon arrival at the central ticket booths. Furthermore, since you are in the birthplace of the legendary Mulino Marino flour, our advice is to step into the small local boutiques to buy a bag of their artisanal grain to take home—it is the ultimate, most authentic gourmet souvenir from the valley.

🛌 Where to Stay: 2 Dreamy Stays for Different Travelers

To fully enjoy the festive weekend and explore the surrounding Belbo Valley after the crowds disperse, we suggest booking one of these two beautiful accommodations:

  • The Relaxing Country-Chic Choice (Agriturismo San Bovo): Perfect for travelers looking for complete immersion in nature and countryside quiet. Perched on a scenic hilltop just a few minutes from the village center, this charming estate features elegant rustic rooms, a stunning outdoor pool overlooking the vines, and an exceptional zero-kilometer restaurant. It is the ideal place to unwind in deep silence after the excitement of the festival.
  • The Modern Boutique Design Choice (Sotto la Vigna): Ideal if you prefer a contemporary, refined, and design-focused atmosphere. Located just a short drive from Cossano Belbo, this eco-chic boutique B&B offers a striking view over the terraced hills celebrated by Italian literature. It features minimalist, high-end rooms, a magnificent infinity pool, and a highly intimate vibe for travelers who want to pair local authenticity with luxury comforts.

🗺️ Continuing Your Langhe Culinary Adventure

Your discovery of Piedmontese flavors has only just begun. If tasting these local delicacies inspires you to get your hands dirty, we warmly invite you to read our comprehensive guide to the best private cooking classes in the Langhe. Learning how to roll out the perfect golden tajarin pasta alongside a professional chef inside a historic farmhouse is the ultimate way to complete your holiday!


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