Every March 24, the European Artisan Gelato Day is celebrated throughout Europe, but its roots lie firmly in Longarone, Italy—where the idea for this unique day was born. As Paolo Garna recalled during the press conference presenting the 2023 initiatives, the event has reached its 11th edition and continues to gain momentum across the continent.
“This day honors a product that is a symbol of Made in Italy and enhances the local agri-food supply chain,” said Garna. “It also encourages artisan gelato shops to kick off the new season. The artisanal gelato industry alone generates nearly €1 billion annually in Italy, highlighting the importance of preserving and promoting this excellence.”
Longarone: Capital of Italian Artisan Gelato
The event also drew attention to Longarone’s historic role in the gelato world. As Roberto Padrin, President of the Province, emphasized:
“Longarone is the capital of gelato, and we’re proud of that. The artisanal tradition that makes Italian gelato unique worldwide is rooted in the know-how of master gelato makers who left these valleys to spread this excellence across the globe.”
Artisan Tradition Meets Innovation
The European Day is not only about honoring tradition but also about pushing forward toward innovation.
“We build on tradition to look to the future,” explained Michele Dal Farra, President of Longarone Fiere Dolomiti.
For the 2023 edition, Longarone Fiere has organized three key initiatives:
- Gelato al Prosecco tasting at the historic San Gregorio Fair in Valdobbiadene, a tribute to local excellence.
- A preview of the “Flavor of the Year 2023” – Apfelstrudel Gelato, inspired by Austrian dessert tradition.
- A public event in Venice on March 23, in partnership with the Veneto Region and Venicepromex, where journalist Gaia Padovan (Mediaset) hosted a morning session dedicated to the nutritional value of artisan gelato.
The 8th “Pocchiesa Award” at Agrimont
The celebration continues on March 24 at Agrimont, the mountain agriculture fair, where the Pocchiesa Award will be presented in collaboration with the Bellunesi nel Mondo association.
This year’s recipient is Michelangelo Corazza, a historic gelato artisan from Belluno who has run his business in Vienna for years—and who is also an author of nearly 50 books on the history, culture, and traditions of Val di Zoldo, many of which also feature the story of gelato.
“After every season, he would write a book,” said Oscar De Bona, President of Bellunesi nel Mondo and former President of Longarone Fiere. “Each one celebrates the life, customs, and culinary heritage of his native valley.”