Every year between the end of April and beginning of May the natural park located on the Tagliamento River in the province of Udine (Friuli region) comes springing back to life. This year it is adorned with new kiosks, as well as the classic stands that have made their home in Rivis di Sedegliano for various popular festivals in the Friuli region. The Frog Festival will once again leap into action for the forty-second edition from Saturday 28 April through 1 May, and will continue every weekend through 20 May.
It’s a well-known fact that springtime brings with it the desire to get outdoors and out of hibernation. The sunlight returns generously to awaken the senses, the renewed flowery scent of rural perfumes hovers in the air and even the laziest among us is inspired to be out in nature. It’s the perfect opportunity to go exploring, experience the thrill of something new, original, and affordable! The Frog Festival fits the bill!
In northern Italy frogs are deeply tied to history. They are especially linked to the rice crops between Piedmont, Friuli and Veneto, where in ancient times the human race began to hunt the small amphibians for livelihood purposes. In fact, the frogs found their natural habitat in the rice fields due to the overabundant presence of water (and therefore highly humid environments), and became an important source of protein for the rural population. Considered aphrodisiacs and often associated with ancient, magical practices related to love, today the common frog and the green frog are placed on the tables of those who like delicate meat, either in risotto or in soups, stewed or fried.
If the thought of dining on frogs makes you want to croak, the culinary proposals go well beyond that. They also include: kebabs, fried calamari, shrimp skewers, local hams and cheeses, spit-roasted chicken, Milanese cutlets, hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, and special menus for children. All of course accompanied by local wines, good music, and entertainment.
An event dedicated entirely to children will take place from 10.00 to 16.00 on May 6th. The main event of the festival is scheduled for Sunday, May 13 beginning at 8:30 am with the sixth edition of the “Ranis di Corse” (frog race), an amateur event organized by the Pro Loco of Rivis al Tagliamento.
The Frog Festival is already underway! Hop on over and check it out!
(puns inserted were very much intended)
photo copyright: messageroveneto.geolocal.it, prolocoregionefvg.it, sagradellerane.it
