The Magic of the Sanremo Music Festival 2025: A Cultural Icon and a Culinary Delight

The Sanremo Festival 2025, scheduled from 10 to 15 February, is at the heart of the Italian music tradition. Celebrated at the Ariston Theatre in Sanremo, this event showcases established stars and emerging talents. With live broadcasts captivating millions around the world, the festival is not just a competition, but a cultural phenomenon.

Highlights of 2025 include exciting performances by top Italian artists and international guests. Although the final line-up is still a secret, past festivals have welcomed American artists such as Whitney Houston in February 1987. That year it was host Pippo Baudo who strongly desired the singer's presence, who ended her performance with a powerful high note and the whole hall erupted in applause and the audience asked for an encore. Another international singer to appear several times at the Sanremo festival was Anastacia, adding a global touch to the stage. This year promises more surprises, with guest appearances and tributes to the history of Italian music, the current host Carlo Conti is a veteran of the Sanremo Festival. 

Since its inception in 1951, Sanremo has been the springboard for iconic careers (think Andrea Bocelli and Laura Pausini) and inspired Eurovision. Its blend of glamour, art and emotion keeps audiences coming back year after year.

Why Sanremo Matters:

Sanremo is more than just a music festival—it’s a reflection of Italy’s soul. It has launched iconic artists, showcased groundbreaking performances, and served as a cultural bridge connecting Italian creativity to the world. With a mix of veteran performers and fresh talent, the festival celebrates the evolution of Italian music, resonating with both local and global audiences.

Sanremo’s Culinary Treasures:

While the festival takes center stage, Sanremo’s culinary heritage is just as captivating. Visitors to the Riviera dei Fiori can indulge in these local delicacies:

• Pansoti with Borage and Pesto: A traditional stuffed pasta served with wild greens and Ligurian pesto, or alternatively, a rich walnut sauce.
  

  Ingredients:

  • 500g flour
  • 300g borage (or spinach)
  • 200g ricotta
  • 1 egg
  • 150g Parmigiano-Reggiano
  • Pesto sauce 

  Instructions:

  1. Mix flour and egg to create pasta dough; roll thin.
  2. Steam and blend borage, then mix with ricotta and Parmigiano for filling.
  3. Cut dough into squares, fill, and seal.
  4. Boil pansoti and serve with pesto.
  
  
• Sardenaira: A flavorful focaccia topped with tomatoes, anchovies, Taggiasca olives, and garlic. Originally made with sardines, this dish is a savory must-try.
  

  Ingredients:

  • 500g flour
  • 200g canned tomatoes
  • 8 anchovies
  • 100g Taggiasca olives
  • 2 garlic cloves

  Instructions:

  1. Prepare dough with flour, water, and yeast; let rise.
  2. Spread dough, add tomato sauce, garlic, anchovies, and olives.
  3. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes until golden.
  
  
  
• Coniglio alla Sanremese: Rabbit slow-cooked with Taggiasca olives, walnuts, onions, and herbs, often paired with Vermentino wine for a true Ligurian taste.
  

  Ingredients:

  • 1 rabbit (cut into pieces)
  • 100g Taggiasca olives
  • 1 onion
  • 50g walnuts
  • 1 cup white wine

  Instructions:

  1. Sauté onion, then brown rabbit pieces.
  2. Add wine, olives, walnuts, and herbs; simmer until tender.
  3. Serve with crusty bread.
  
  

Sanremo combines world-class entertainment with gastronomic charm, making it a must-experience for anyone who loves music, culture, and exquisite Italian flavors.

Join the Fun with Fantasanremo!
Don’t just watch the festival—play along! Create your team and join our Fantasanremo League before February 10th. 

To participate, head to Fantasanremo Website and search for the Dolceterra League. Let the games begin!