The 13 Unmissable Fall Festivals in and around Bologna, Italy
Fall is a special time in Bologna and the surrounding areas, filled with fall festivals celebrating local traditions, delicious food, and the rich flavors of the season. If you’re looking for ideas on how to spend your fall weekends, here’s a selection of must-visit festivals to fully experience the authentic atmosphere of Emilia-Romagna and the Bologna Area.
Autumn is, without a doubt, my favorite season. The cooler days, the stunning colors painting the landscapes—it’s pure magic! But one of the main reasons I love this season is the opportunity to attend the many fall festivals that bring life to the Bologna Area.
Each festival is a chance to savor traditional dishes and seasonal recipes that warm the soul, all while enjoying a festive and welcoming atmosphere filled with the most authentic flavors of fall.
If, like me, you love immersing yourself in this joyful and convivial mood, here are some fall festivals you should definitely mark on your calendar for unforgettable fall weekends.
COSA TROVERAI IN QUESTO POST:
Festa della Patata – in Querciola (Lizzano in Belvedere)
Date: October 5, 2024
In the Bologna Area, potato lovers can’t miss the Festa della Patata (“Potato festival”) in Querciola. This festival offers the chance to taste delicious potato-based dishes, a key ingredient in Emilia-Romagna cuisine, while experiencing the rural traditions of this charming mountain village.
Fiera San Martino dei Manzoli – in Minerbio
Date: October 5-6, 2024
Set in the stunning Castello dei Manzoli, which is usually closed to the public, this historical reenactment features markets and food and wine stands. The festival kicks off on Saturday with performances by historical groups and an exciting fire show. Sunday begins with a traditional breakfast, followed by falconry, a castle siege reenactment, and live music by Magnetika Band.
Sagra del Bollito – in San Pietro in Casale
Date: October 10-20, 2024
Bollito misto is a simple yet deeply traditional dish in Bologna, but it’s rarely found in restaurants or even on locals’ tables these days. The Sagra del Bollito is your chance to enjoy this flavorful specialty, paired with traditional sauces and excellent wine for a truly authentic experience in the heart of the Bologna Area.
Granarolo in Festa – in Granarolo dell’Emilia
Date: October 11-13, 2024
This three-day festival fills the streets of Granarolo dell’Emilia with celebrations, entertainment, and plenty of food and wine. Granarolo in festa marks its 37th edition in 2024, featuring torchlight processions, funfair rides, markets, and, of course, plenty of delicious local specialties.
Oktoberfest e Oktoberstallen – in Monghidoro and Imola
Oktoberstallen, Imola: October 2-5, 2024
📅 Oktoberfest, Piamaggio (Monghidoro): October 12, 2024
Beer lovers, these events are for you! Both Oktoberstallen in Imola and Oktoberfest in Monghidoro bring the Bavarian beer festival atmosphere to Emilia, offering great music, delicious food, and, of course, rivers of craft beer.
Fiera d’Autunno – in Argelato
Date: October 13, 2024
One of the most important fall festivals around Bologna, the Fiera d’Autunno in Argelato is a lively event featuring food and wine stalls, artisanal exhibits, and family-friendly activities. It’s the perfect way to spend a Sunday exploring seasonal flavors and traditions.
Sagra del Marrone Biondo – in Loiano
Data: October 20, 2024
Loiano’s Marrone Biondo chestnut is a renowned local delicacy, prized for its sweet taste and high quality. From noon on October 20, the Sagra del Marrone Biondo will be in full swing at Centro Feste Primavera, featuring food stands, live music, roasted chestnuts, and mulled wine. A fantastic way to enjoy the stunning autumn landscapes of the Bologna Area!
Festa della Castagna – in Porretta Terme (Alto Reno Terme)
Date: October 26-27, 2024
The Festa della Castagna in Porretta Terme is back for its 18th edition in 2024, celebrating chestnuts with food tastings, craft markets, and live performances. A must-visit event for anyone who loves embracing fall festivals and seasonal traditions.
Festa nel Bosco “Il Pane nel bosco” (“bread in the wood“) – in Loiano
Date: October 27, 2024
Organized by the Loiano Pro Loco, this charming festival takes place in the wood of Ca’ di Priami, featuring food stands, markets, music, and activities for children—a perfect fall weekend outing for the whole family.
Sagra della Castagna – in Granaglione (Alto Reno Terme)
Date: November 1-3, 2024
Granaglione turns into a chestnut lover’s paradise during this festival, with food and wine stands, tastings, and entertainment for all ages.
Festa di San Martino – in Quinzano (Loiano)
Date: November 10, 2024
San Martino is widely celebrated across Emilia-Romagna, and Quinzano (Loiano) is no exception. This festival blends faith, tradition, and local flavors, featuring polenta, the famous Italian dessert “zuppa inglese,” and mulled wine.
Tartufesta – Multiple Locations in the Bologna Area
Autumn in Bologna wouldn’t be the same without truffle festivals! This annual truffle celebration takes place in several locations, giving you the opportunity to taste exquisite truffle-based dishes while exploring charming villages in the Bologna Area.
Dates & Locations:
- Pianoro: October 19-20, 2024
- Sasso Marconi: October 26 – November 3, 2024
- Savigno (Tartòfla): October 26 – November 17, 2024
- Loiano: October 27, 2024
- Monghidoro: November 1, 2024
- Campolo (Grizzana Morandi): November 2, 2024
- Castiglione dei Pepoli: November 3, 2024
- Castel di Casio: November 10, 2024
These festivals are a paradise for truffle lovers, featuring tastings, local product stands, and gourmet dishes highlighting this prized ingredient.
Festa d’Inverno – in Ca’ del Costa (Monghidoro)
Date: December 8, 2024
As winter approaches, the Festa d’Inverno in Ca’ del Costa invites you to enjoy seasonal flavors like roasted chestnuts, sweets, and warm drinks, all in a cozy, festive setting with a charming Christmas market.
The Bologna Area is bursting with fall festivals that celebrate local flavors and traditions. Whether you’re a food and wine enthusiast or love exploring the countryside, there’s a perfect festival for you.
Mark these dates on your calendar and get ready to enjoy a season filled with great food, warm community spirit, and breathtaking autumn landscapes!
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