Milan, February 28, 2024 – The 12th edition of the European Artisanal Gelato Day will be celebrated on March 24, 2024, bringing once again the spotlight to one of the world’s most beloved gastronomic creations. Promoted by Longarone Fiere Dolomiti and Artglace, Gelato Day honors the craftsmanship, tradition, and cultural value of authentic artisan gelato across Italy, Europe—and beyond.
From north to south of Italy and across European cities, artisan gelato will take center stage with events, tastings, workshops, and educational activities for all ages. This year, gelato parlors will scoop the 2024 Flavor of the Year: Gaufre de Liège, a neutral gelato base flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, swirled with salted butter and topped with a Liège waffle—a tribute to Belgium's rich culinary heritage. Gelaterias are free to follow the original recipe or express their own creative take.
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
The 2024 edition of Gelato Day is supported by prestigious partners, including:
The Italian Gelato Makers Association and its historic “Gelato a Primavera” initiative, ongoing since 1986, offering free gelato to children in primary and preschool education to promote this symbol of Italian excellence.
Key industry bodies including Confartigianato Nazionale, ACOMAG, CNA, Comitato Gelatieri Campani, Conpait Gelato, Federazione Italiana Gelatieri, G.A. – Comitato per la Difesa del Gelato Artigianale, G.A.T. – Gelatieri Artigianali del Triveneto, Ilgelatoartigianale.info, Maestri della Gelateria Italiana, and SIGEP – the international trade show by Italian Exhibition Group.
THE VIDEO CONTEST
Following the success of previous years, Artglace once again invites gelato makers from across Europe to participate in the official Video Contest for Gelato Day 2024. Open from March 1 to October 30, the contest challenges gelato artisans to create a 90-second video demonstrating their interpretation of the 2024 Flavor of the Year, Gaufre de Liège, using the official recipe ingredients.
Entries will be judged by a panel of experts based on:
The top three winners will be celebrated at the launch of the 13th edition of Gelato Day during SIGEP 2025 in Rimini. All submitted videos will also be published on the official Gelato Day YouTube channel, offering audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the artistry, passion, and technique of Europe’s finest gelato makers.
CELEBRATING GELATO WITH TASTE, CULTURE & COMMUNITY
Numerous events across Italy and Europe will bring communities together to celebrate artisan gelato, combining taste with education, solidarity, and cultural exchange.
“We are just a few weeks away from the eagerly awaited 12th edition of Gelato Day,” says Domenico Belmonte, President of Artglace. “The calendar of events continues to grow, and we are deeply grateful to all the gelato artisans and partners who, year after year, commit to promoting and celebrating this high-quality product that brings people together—across Italy, Europe, and the world. The video contest is also a unique opportunity to dive into the creativity and traditions behind true artisan gelato.”
Stay up to date on all activities for the 2024 European Artisanal Gelato Day at www.gelato-day.com and follow Gelato Day on:
All gelato shops across Italy and Europe are encouraged to participate in Gelato Day 2024 by registering their events online at www.gelato-day.com.