Longarone, November 27, 2022 – The 62nd edition of MIG – the International Exhibition of Artisan Gelato in Longarone – kicked off with great success, drawing crowds of visitors and exhibitors from across Europe. The event began under sunny skies and with strong institutional support, confirming once again Longarone’s status as the world capital of artisan gelato.
A Message of Solidarity and Optimism
During the opening ceremony, Roberto Padrin, President of the Province of Belluno, opened with a message of support for the citizens of Casamicciola Terme, affected by a landslide the day before. The ceremony continued with Luca Zaia, Governor of the Veneto Region, who underscored the optimism and resilience of Italian artisans:
“If pessimists never succeed, then MIG and our artisan gelato are the perfect counterexample. Thanks to the vision of those who believed in the future even during difficult times, our gelato is now a global symbol of quality and creativity.”
Zaia praised the historical innovation of the cone, likening it to Italy’s invention of spaghetti—symbols of Italian excellence recognized worldwide.
New Leadership, Shared Vision
Michele Dal Farra, newly appointed President of Longarone Fiere Dolomiti, emphasized the value of the strong ties built over the years between the Fair and its exhibitors:
“This is not just an event; it’s a heritage. We must return the value exhibitors have given us, while looking forward with a clear goal: building the future together.”
Dal Farra called for a shared commitment from institutions and private stakeholders to innovate, collaborate, and uphold Longarone’s leadership in the gelato industry.
Legislative Support for Artisan Gelato
Senator Luca De Carlo, President of the Italian Senate's Commission for Industry, Commerce, Tourism, Agriculture and Food Production, announced progress on a proposed law to protect and promote artisan gelato:
“We aim to create clear, practical legislation that supports gelato artisans, mayors, and entrepreneurs – and recognizes Longarone as a global hub for artisan gelato.”
Honoring Tradition, Embracing Innovation
Roberto Padrin reflected on the legacy of past leaders and honored artisan pioneers such as De Pellegrin and Bellese, winner of the first Coppa d’Oro in 1970 with his vanilla flavor. A special De Pellegrin Memorial Award was presented to the Ongaro family of La Casa del Gelato in Caorle.
Dario Olivier, MIG Coordinator, closed the ceremony by outlining the show’s themes and innovations:
- A strong focus on sustainability, with a dedicated conference and awards for eco-friendly packaging
- The debut of gelato for dogs, highlighting the expanding diversity in artisan gelato
- A unique Austrian-German flavor challenge, where visitors vote on the winner
- Gourmet pairings, including gelato and chocolate
- The celebrated Malaga flavor as the 2022 Coppa d’Oro winner
- The essential role of the entire supply chain, from producer to consumer
Gelato and Smiles: A Tradition of Engagement
As is tradition, Governor Zaia donned the iconic gelatiere jacket and personally served gelato to attendees—bringing smiles and reinforcing the warm, accessible spirit of the artisan gelato world.
