Although the tourist boom period here is for obvious reasons the fall season, a great many people also choose our area as a summer destination, some for a real vacation, others for a short getaway and to enjoy the many events. Because let’s face it, it’s great here all year round.
If you like the idea of strolling among banquets in ancient villages, sampling delicacies such as Albese-style raw meat, handmade tajarin, cheeses and renowned local wines, you can’t miss thesummer festivals, unique opportunities to discover local gastronomic excellence and much more.
After careful research and selection among historical and new proposals, here are some of the must-see summer festivals in Langhe, Roero and Monferrato.
Coccowine
August 30 and September 1
One of the most appreciated and popular food and wine events in Piedmont is now in its 23rd year.
Cocconato turns into a sort of wine road where the wineries of Cocconato and Monferrato fill the historic center of the town to give you the chance to taste the wines and typical products of the area.
Bon Vin Festival of Farigliano
It takes place the month of August
Farigliano’s Bon Vin Festival celebrates wine and local traditions.
The event is an unmissable opportunity to discover the flavors and traditions of the area’s local
Organized by the Pro Loco, the event offers a week full of events, including dance evenings with orchestras, tastings of local wines and dishes, concerts and performances.
In addition, the festival includes cultural and recreational activities such as photo contests, motorcycle races and traditional games.
Feisoglio Hazelnut Festival
It takes place in September
We are in Alta Langa and this event is dedicated to the great pride of this area, the Piedmont hazelnut, one of the best varieties in the world.
The festival is traditionally held between late August and early September and offers many activities, including tastings of sweets and hazelnut dishes, cultural events, concerts, and performances.
The night of the masche of Sinio
It takes place on August 14
The “Night of the Masche” in Sinio is part of the traditional “Festa ‘d Sin-i.” This celebration is a tribute to the local legends of the “masche“, the witches featured in many traditional Piedmontese tales.
An unforgettable experience for anyone who loves culture and folk traditions
Throughout the night, the streets and squares of the historic center come alive with theatrical performances, music and re-enactments that bring to life stories of witchcraft and spells that fascinate adults and children alike.
Here, too, there is no shortage of tastings of local products such as wine and cheese, and recreational activities for the whole family.
Feast of Bussia
It takes place the month of August
Bussia is a hamlet of Monforte d’Alba. This historic festival, celebrates the local food and wine culture, with special emphasis on the fine wines of the area, where the great protagonist is his majesty Barolo.
During the event, visitors can enjoy traditional dishes such as green anchovies, Langa tume, agnolotti and grilled meat, accompanied by local wines.
The evenings are enlivened by music and performances in an atmosphere of conviviality and tradition.
Motta Pepper Festival of Costigliole d’Asti
It takes place the month of July
The event was created to pay homage to the famous local square bell pepper. This festival, now in its 77th year, is usually held at the end of July and offers a rich program of food and music events.
Here among the traditional dishes you can enjoy the famous fried frogs Mottese style. The highlights and most attended moments of the festival are the Sunday lunch and the barbecue under the stars on Monday night.
Snail Festival – govone
It takes place the month of August
The Govone Snail Festival takes place at the Royal Castle of Govone and celebrates gastronomic specialties made with snails, such as snail skewers, snails a la parisienne, fried, green snails, and many other delicacies.
The festival is not only an opportunity to enjoy great food, but also a time for the community and visitors to come together
In addition to culinary delights, the event offers evenings of entertainment, including concerts, orchestral performances, and theatrical performances.
The 2023 edition included a number of events such as a gathering of historic cars, sports entertainment for children, and dance nights with ballroom orchestras.
Truffle Noodle Festival – Cortazzone
It takes place the month of August
In Cortazzone, Alto Monferrato, one of the most anticipated events of the year is the Tagliatella festival, which will be 14 years old in 2024.
During the event, which usually lasts four days, performances and bocce competitions are organized, while food stands offer a variety of dishes prepared with high-quality ingredients from the area and accompanied by wines from local producers.
Cortemilia National Hazelnut Fair
It takes place from August 17 to 25
This is the most important event dedicated to the Tonda Gentile hazelnut.
It is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Alta Langa
The 2024 edition, marking the 70th anniversary of the fair, will take place as always in the picturesque village of Cortemilia and will offer a combination of cultural meetings, book presentations, theater performances, concerts and numerous food and wine activities.
The event also includes children’s activities, folk performances and the participation of nationally renowned artists.
September in Asti: Palio, Festival delle Sagre (Festival of Festivals) and Douja D’or
In September, the city of Asti the month of September offers three must-see events.
The Palio is an exciting horse race that dates back to the 13th century, where passion, village pride and medieval atmosphere are the essential elements.
The Festival of Festivals is an event for food and wine lovers, an extraordinary opportunity to enjoy culinary delicacies and a festive atmosphere.
La Douja d’Or is a prestigious wine competition of national scope. During the opening days, visitors have the opportunity to purchase and taste the award-winning wines and participate in various side events.
Da Ciabot a Ciabot – Sommariva Perno
The first weekend of September
“Da Ciabot a Ciabot” is a food and wine walk that takes place in Sommariva Perno, among the Arneis hills. The event guides participants through a scenic route of about 3 km, with stops at several “ciabot” (shed) where typical dishes accompanied by local wines are offered.
Each stage offers culinary specialties such as bruschetta, vitello tonnato, ravioli with meat sauce, and more.
The event is organized by the Pro Loco of Sommariva Perno, which also offers services such as shuttle buses and a dedicated children’s menu.
Grape harvest festival – Fontanafredda
It takes place in September
Fontanafredda’s “Harvest Festival” celebrates the grape harvest. The next edition will be held on September 9, 2024 at the Fontanafredda Narrating Village in Serralunga d’Alba.
The event includes many activities for young and old, including barefoot grape crushing, visits to historic wineries, e-bike tours through the vineyards, and vintage markets.
There is never a shortage of live music, DJ sets, performances, and a wide selection of food and wine. Culinary offerings include street food options and gourmet dinners curated by star chefs.
September Festival – Montà
It takes place in September
As it has every year for the past 54 years, the event will be held in early September: a week full of activities ranging from wine and honey tastings to musical performances and theater shows.
The event includes numerous dinners in the square, live concerts, DJ sets, art exhibitions and sports activities such as the Montatesi Olympics. Especially awaited is the “Itinerant Dinner” in the historic center, which allows participants to enjoy various local specialties.
Every evening, the wine shop “Il Salotto” will be open for tastings of local wines, while the tavern “tutapOSTU” will offer traditional dishes .