From November 8 to 11, Palermo will once again become the world capital of artisan gelato with the return of Sherbeth Festival, the largest international event entirely dedicated to artisanal gelato. Held in the iconic Piazza Verdi and Via Maqueda, right in front of Teatro Massimo, the 16th edition of the festival brings together over 50 master gelato makers from around the globe for four days of tastings, live demos, cultural events, and hands-on workshops.
Live Gelato-Making Shows & Tastings in Two Grand “Artisan Ateliers”
Visitors can witness gelato being made in real time using traditional methods and top-quality ingredients at the massive “Artisan Atelier,” equipped with Bravo Spa machinery. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to taste the creations directly from the hands of the masters at the Gelato Kiosks. New for 2024: two dedicated auditoriums for talks and debates on gelato trends, sustainability, and innovation.
Star Chefs, Social Media Icons & Global Media Attention
The event will feature cooking shows by Michelin-starred chefs like Giuseppe Raciti (Zash), Giovanni Santoro (Shalai), and Carmelo Trentacosti (Mec). Food influencer Ruben, named by Forbes as one of the most influential digital creators, will also take the stage alongside renowned gelato artisans such as Renato Trabalza and Lorenzo Domenighini.
International recognition is growing. During press previews in Rome and Milan, foreign correspondents emphasized how the word “gelato” is replacing “ice cream” in countries like Japan when referring to quality, handmade frozen desserts—a testament to the cultural shift driven by Sherbeth and similar events.
A Global Competition with Local Roots: The “Procopio Cutò” Award
One of the most anticipated moments for professionals is the Procopio Cutò contest, named after the Sicilian-born founder of the first gelato shop in Paris in 1686. Each participant will present a signature flavor to a distinguished jury, featuring experts like gastronomy professor Nerina Di Nunzio (University of Roma Tre), CNR researchers, and foreign press journalists. The goal? To create an original flavor using high-quality ingredients, with impeccable technique.
Spotlight on Sustainability and Social Justice: Gelato from Mafia-Seized Lands
One of the festival’s most powerful moments will come on the evening of November 9, during “The Taste of Freedom”, an event focused on gelato made exclusively with ingredients grown on land reclaimed from the mafia. The session will include a live demonstration by Giovanna Musumeci and interventions by representatives from Libera and cooperatives managing these lands, followed by tastings of these symbolic flavors.
Education, Innovation & the Future of Artisan Gelato
Talks and masterclasses will delve into topics like storytelling through gelato, gelato and balsamic vinegar pairings, and the use of aromatic herbs in frozen desserts. On the final day, November 11, a round table titled “The Future of Artisan Gelato” will bring together industry leaders, academics, and media personalities to discuss trends, challenges, and global opportunities in the gelato sector.
Don’t Miss the 2024 Edition
Sherbeth Festival is more than a competition—it’s a community, a celebration of excellence, and a launchpad for innovation in the artisan gelato industry. Whether you're a gelato maker, a food tourism professional, or a passionate foodie, Sherbeth is the event you can’t miss.
🗓 Full program and updates available at www.sherbethfestival.it