Gluten Free Festival a Major Success in Southern Italy
The first edition of the Gluten Free Festival in Southern Italy was a major success, attracting over seven thousand people from all over Sicily, Calabria, and other regions. Organized by AIC Sicilia (Italian Celiac Association Sicily section) and Sicily Event by Davide Merlino, the two-day festival was a celebration of all things gluten free.
The festival featured cooking shows with renowned chefs, musical performances, and informative sessions with experts in the celiac disease sector. The attendees were able to taste a variety of gluten-free versions of typical Sicilian, Apulian, and Venezuelan dishes, as well as enjoy street food favorites in a gluten-free version.
Paolo Baronello, President of AIC Sicilia, expressed his joy at the success of the festival and the positive response from celiacs in attendance. “For the first time, celiacs felt at the center of collective interest, loudly saying ‘we are here’ and asking us to continue winning for them,” he stated.
The exhibitors were pleased with the turnout and sold out of their products thanks to the massive presence of festival-goers. Children were also actively involved in the festival, enjoying dedicated activities and games.
President Paolo Baronello presented certificates of merit to partner associations, chefs, and local officials for their support and collaboration in making the festival a reality. Plans are already in motion for a second edition of the Gluten Free Festival, with hopes of building on the success of this year’s event.
The festival proved to be a unique and special experience for celiacs and gluten-free enthusiasts, showing that there is a growing interest and demand for gluten-free options in Southern Italy. The organizers are optimistic about the future of the festival and the impact it can have on the gluten-free community in the region.