Celebrating Community at the Heart of Villa Latina
Since 2002, Villa Latina Festival has been bringing together locals from neighbouring towns such as Atina & Picinisco, returning families and visitors from across Europe to celebrate the culture, heritage and traditions of this historic Italian town. What began as a local community gathering has grown into a much-loved annual event, attracting between 2,000 and 2,500 attendees each year.
The festival’s impact extends far beyond the event itself. Funds raised go directly back into the community, supporting the upkeep of the town’s children’s park, contributing to local charities and churches, and helping ensure no family in the area goes without during harder times. It is this strong sense of community and giving back that makes Villa Latina Fest such a special occasion.
Many of the families connected to Villa Latina have deep roots across Scotland and the UK. Businesses linked to the area include the Vittoria Group in Edinburgh, Viva Italia Group, Gloria’s in Bonnyrigg, La Capanna in Livingston and Gold Sea in Edinburgh. Even the family roots of Scottish singer Lewis Capaldi can be traced back to this region.
Big Al’s Debut at Villa Latina Festival
2026 marked Big Al’s first-ever participation at Villa Latina Festival, creating an exciting opportunity to introduce the brand to a new audience while strengthening relationships with existing customers and partners. The event brought together residents, visitors, operators and foodservice professionals, including valued customers already familiar with the Big Al’s portfolio.
As part of the event, Big Al’s created a dedicated burger stand experience designed to put our quality products centre stage and demonstrate what makes the brand a trusted choice for operators.
Every August, the pre-Apennine town of Casalattico came alive for Irish Fest, and this year was marked by a special milestone: the festival’s 26th anniversary. Big Al’s was once again proud to be part of it.
“Our first year at Villa Latina has exceeded all expectations. The community spirit, hospitality and warm welcome from the locals and event organisers have made it a truly special festival to be part of and we look forward to coming back next year.”
Paul O’Hare – Head of QSR Business Development – UK & EU
Prime Burger Takes Centre Stage
The hero of our menu was the Big Al’s Prime Burger, served in a premium brioche bun and finished with quality toppings and sauces. The objective was simple: give festival goers the opportunity to experience the quality, consistency and flavour that operators rely on every day.
With support from Rich Sauces, who supplied ketchup, mayonnaise and their new jalapeño pickle relish, visitors enjoyed a premium burger experience that proved hugely popular throughout the festival, so popular, in fact, Our Big Al’s team served over 240 Prime Burgers during the festival
Beyond serving great food, the burger stand became a focal point for conversation, engagement and brand discovery, allowing attendees to connect directly with the Big Al’s team and learn more about our foodservice solutions.
Looking Ahead
Our first year at Villa Latina Festival demonstrated the power of food to bring communities together. From serving hundreds of Prime Burgers to engaging with customers old and new, the event delivered a memorable experience and reinforced the importance of authentic community connections.
We would like to thank the Villa Latina Festival committee, local volunteers, residents and visitors for their warm welcome and support throughout the event. A special thank you goes to event organiser Franco Cortellessa and Mayor Luciano Persichini for their support in making the event such a success.
As Big Al’s continues to grow its presence across Scotland and UK, events like Villa Latina Festival provide an invaluable opportunity to celebrate heritage, build relationships and showcase the quality products that help operators serve great food every day.
Our first visit to Villa Latina Festival has reinforced the importance of celebrating community, heritage and great food. We’d like to thank everyone who stopped by the Big Al’s stand this weekend, and we look forward to returning in the years ahead.
For more info on our burger range click here!
