Sagra dell'Offella di Parona

Once upon a time, there were Pasqualina and Elena Colli…
The birth of the Offella is a bit like a fairy tale, telling the true story of two sisters from Parona who, at the end of the 19th century, created this specialty without ever revealing its recipe.

The presence of the Offelle on Parona’s tables soon became linked to the celebration of Our Lady of the Rosary, when they were offered to relatives and friends arriving from nearby towns to enjoy their unmistakable flavor.

To protect the authenticity of this traditional biscuit, the local Pro Loco association registered a guarantee brand, given to producers who gradually replaced the old household ovens.

And to promote its image, since 1969 they have organized the Sagra dell’Offella, held on the first Sunday of October: on that day, the colors and atmosphere of the traditional folk festival come alive.

What was the secret behind such success? The answer is simple: the genuineness of the ingredients, their perfect balance, and the precise baking gave the product an exceptional level of popularity.

Those ingredients and those methods of production, even after decades, have remained unchanged.
They still attract thousands of visitors, drawn to the timeless sweetness of this dessert — the pride of Lomellina.

Parona is now preparing to celebrate the 2026 edition of its historic Sagra dell’Offella, expanding the program into three evenings full of flavors, music, and events for all ages.