In Omegna, just a stone's throw away from the lake, the arrival of Autumn an the first chilly days will be celebrated with a festival dedicated to the pumpkin, a fruit which boasts several varieties, gives colour to vegetable gardens and is a precious ingredient of many recipes as well as being the symbol of Halloween, a festival celebrated by so many young children today. From 19th to 21st October in Omegna, the pumpkin will be the protagonist of exhibitions, displays and the main ingredient of numerous dishes available to eat.

This fruit originates in North America, where it was a fundamental source of food for Native Americans and the early colonials learnt from these people how to cultivate it. From here, its fame spread to the Old World.

Today it is a sought after food, used in a multitude of recipes, dishes and accompanied by other delicacies. So for three days you can tickle your taste buds visiting the Mercato del Contadino [farmer's market] in the Omegna Old Town, stopping off at the food stands or trying out focaccia with pumpkin at 17.00 on Saturday in Piazza Mameli. On Sunday 21st October, don't miss the chance to by Halloween goodies made from various types of pumpkins yellow, orange, green, and of all shapes and sizes too, for all tastes and for various uses. The three days will be even more enjoyable thanks to music and animation for children

Programme: FRIDAY 19th OCTOBER 2007- Inauguration of the exhibition by Osvaldo Tassera at the Sala del Carrobbio SATURDAY 20th OCTOBER 2007- Farmers' market in the old town streets from 9.00 to 19.00 - Tent with pumpkin produce on sale and Halloween goodies in Piazza Mameli at 10.00- Food stand from 11.00 to 19.00 organised by Pro Loco (those who wish can try pumpkin risotto)- at 14.00 entertainment from the Oratory children in the town's streets- At 17.00 pumpkin focaccia will be distributed in Piazza Mameli- Food and Wine event which costs €25 with a pumpkin based menu in various restaurants around the town (the list of participating restaurants will be published on the official programme)

SUNDAY 21st OCTOBER 2007- Agricultural and food market in the old town's streets from 09.00 to 19.00. At 10.00 food and gadgets on sale in Piazza Mameli- From 11.00 ProLoco will open food stand- At 15.00 The Omega musical band will arrive- At 16.30 pumpkin risotto will be served at the town hall (cooked in a typical pan)

For further information: Pro Loco Omegna
+39 0323 61930