Emilia is a land rich in culinary and cultural traditions, and its festivals represent the most authentic soul of this region. From Modena to Parma, from Reggio Emilia to Piacenza, each village proudly celebrates its typical products through food and wine events that attract visitors from all over Italy and the world.

The significance of festivals in Emilia

The Emilian festivals are born as popular celebrations linked to the harvest, the seasons or local products. These events are a time of celebration and sharing, where communities come together to honor their culinary roots.
Each festival is dedicated to a specific product, which is celebrated through traditional recipes, stalls, shows and tastings. Participating in an Emilian festival means not only to taste the typical dishes, but also to get in touch with the authenticity of a territory that lives and breathes its own gastronomic culture.
The festivals are not only an opportunity to taste unique and genuine dishes, but also to immerse yourself in the history, stories and folk traditions that make Emilia a special place. Let’s discover the most famous festivals and what makes them unmissable.

The festivals not to be missed in Emilia

1. Parmigiano Reggiano Fair (Casina)
The Parmigiano Reggiano Fair in Casina, in the province of Reggio Emilia, is a tribute to the king of Italian cheeses. During the event, which is held every summer, you can attend cheese making demonstrations, taste Parmigiano Reggiano of different ages and discover the secrets of its production.

2. Tortellino festival (Castelfranco Emilia)
Tortellino, a symbol of Emilian cuisine, has its own festival in Castelfranco Emilia, where the legend says he was born. This event, which takes place in September, offers the opportunity to taste handmade tortellini, served in broth according to the traditional recipe.

3. Festival of the Lambrusco and Spergola (Scandiano)
In Scandiano, in the province of Reggio Emilia, Lambrusco and Spergola are the protagonists of a festival that celebrates these two typical wines. Between tastings, combinations with cold meats and cheeses and musical performances, this festival is perfect for lovers of wine and conviviality.

4. Festa della Coppa Piacentina (Carpaneto Piacentino)
The Coppa Piacentina DOP, one of the finest cured meats in Emilia, is at the center of this festival that takes place every September. In addition to the cup tasting, the festival offers shows and activities related to the tradition of Piacenza.

5. The Culatello festival in Zibello
The Culatello di Zibello DOP is one of the excellences of the Food Valley, and the festival dedicated to this product, which takes place in June, is a unique opportunity to taste the king of cured meats in all its variations, accompanied by local wines.

6. Festival of the Onion (Mezzolara)
In September, the village of Mezzolara, in the province of Bologna, celebrates the onion, humble but essential ingredient in Emilian cuisine. The event offers traditional dishes based on onion, craft markets and shows for young and old.