A Deep Dive Into the Iconic Naples Event Celebrating Authentic Neapolitan Pizza
Every year, along the sparkling seafront of Naples, Italy, the birthplace of pizza comes alive with the sounds of crackling wood-fired ovens, the scent of tomato and basil in the air, and crowds of pizza lovers from around the world. Welcome to Naples Pizza Village — the largest pizza festival on the planet, where history, craftsmanship, and culinary passion collide.
What Is Naples Pizza Village?
Held annually in June on the Lungomare Caracciolo, Naples Pizza Village is a one-of-a-kind celebration of the art and soul of Neapolitan pizza. The event stretches for over 1 kilometer along the coast, transforming the promenade into a giant open-air pizzeria.
Over the course of the festival, more than 100,000 pizzas are made and served by master pizzaioli from across Italy and beyond. These aren’t just any pizza makers—they’re true artisans, many of whom represent historic pizza families with generations of experience.
Behind the Ovens: Interviews With the Pizzaioli
We spoke with Gino Sorbillo, one of Naples’ most celebrated pizzaioli, whose family has been making pizza since 1935.
“Naples Pizza Village is not just an event, it’s our pride,” Sorbillo says. “Here, we show the world what true pizza is—made with tradition, simplicity, and soul.”
Another legend, Enzo Coccia, shared:
“There’s magic in the way we mix the dough, in the 90 seconds it takes to bake in a wood-fired oven. But the real magic is seeing thousands of people from around the world come here to taste it.”
A Feast for the Senses (and the Instagram Feed)
Visitors can walk booth to booth, each run by a different pizzeria or pizza school, sampling traditional Margheritas, Marinara, and experimental pies like buffalo ricotta with lemon zest or smoked provola and chili oil.
Alongside the food, there’s live music, cooking demonstrations, contests, and family-friendly activities. Nights end with DJ sets and fireworks over the Bay of Naples, making it as much a party as it is a food festival.
Popular activities include:
- Watching dough-spinning acrobatics
- Attending pizza-making workshops
- Voting in “Best Slice” competitions
- Exploring regional wine pairings
Pizza Trends Spotted at the Festival
Every year, new ideas and bold flavors debut at Pizza Village. Here are a few 2025 trends spotted this year:
- “Reverse Topping” Technique: Sauce and toppings added post-bake for freshness and flavor control
- Alternative Flours: Spelt, hemp, and chickpea doughs were popular for health-conscious eaters
- Sweet & Savory Fusion: Prosciutto with fig jam and balsamic glaze stole the show
- Smoked Everything: From cheeses to crusts, smoke was a rising flavor trend
Why It Matters
Naples Pizza Village isn’t just about feeding people—it’s about preserving a cultural treasure. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, the Neapolitan pizza tradition is alive and well in this vibrant festival.
It bridges the past and the future, showing that even as new styles and toppings emerge, the heart of pizza will always beat loudest in Naples.
