La Valle del Gigante Bianco

From May 29th to June 7th, 2026, Bettolle celebrates the undisputed queen of the Valdichiana: the Chianina cattle breed. 

Bettolle is the birthplace of Professor Ezio Marchi, the renowned zoologist whose research led to the development of the modern breed. 

Since 2005, this extraordinary event has celebrated the history, culture, and unmistakable flavor of the Chianina Vitellone Bianco dell'Appennino Centrale PGI (White Vitellone of the Central Apennines), in collaboration with the Consortium for its Protection. 

Get ready for two weekends packed with events, culture, nature, and, of course, excellent cuisine! 

Here are the key events not to be missed: 

THE TASTE OF TRADITION: 

L’Osteria della Chianina: at Villa Olda Park, traditional dishes with a focus on recipes that showcase the forequarter, because true gastronomic sustainability wastes nothing. 

Aperitif-Streetfood: at the Giardini C. Grazi, every day of the event, hamburgers, lampredotto, tegamaccio, chips and craft beer, plus a DJ set. 

The Great Events of Taste: the 1st Edition of the "Largest Steak" competition, the "L'Occhio del Maestro" butchers' challenge, extra virgin olive oil and prosecco masterclasses, and above all the exclusive "Chianina in tavola" Gala Dinner (June 4). 

A LEAP INTO THE PAST: RE-ENACTMENTS AND TRANSHUMANCE 

Relive the magic of the 1950s with the spectacular Historical Re-enactment of a Peasant Wedding, from the wedding procession to the lunch with stornellatori, up to the party and dancing in the farmyard (June 2). 

The celebration of the peasant wedding of the transhumance continues with the Butteri d'Alta Maremma and the re-enactment of the peasant vigil (June 7).

SPORTS, MOTORS, AND OUTDOOR 

For two-wheel enthusiasts, there will be motorcycle and vintage car rallies (May 31) and the unmissable Gravel and Gran Fondo del Gigante Bianco stages (June 6 and 7). 

An Ecological Walk will take you on a leisurely discovery of the valley that gave birth to the Chianina cattle (May 30). 

CULTURE, EXHIBITIONS, AND FAMILY ACTIVITIES 

Lots of activities for children too, with silkworm and "create a herbarium" workshops, the opening of the "Animal Farm," and the Citizens' Garden with traditional games and a traditional snack (May 31 and June 1, 2, and 7). 

Throughout the event, photographic and documentary exhibitions will be open to rediscover the Valdichiana landscape. 

Special Experience: Monday, June 1st and Tuesday, June 2nd, guided tours of local farms with "Open Chianina Stables." 

For more information, visit www.amicidellachianina.it and follow the official Facebook and Instagram pages of the Amici della Chianina Association.