September in Emilia-Romagna is a culinary and cultural paradise, with numerous festivals celebrating the region’s rich gastronomic heritage. As the warmth of summer fades and autumn begins, the region comes alive with events dedicated to local produce, wine, and traditional dishes. Below is an expanded overview of these festivals, enriched with additional details and useful links.
Festa dell’Uva at Castello di Gropparello
One of the most family-friendly events is the Festa dell’Uva at Castello di Gropparello, located in the province of Piacenza. This event, held every Sunday in September, invites families to participate in grape harvesting and stomping, offering an immersive experience in winemaking traditions. Children can stomp grapes in wooden vats, while adults enjoy wine tastings of local DOC wines. The event is set in the enchanting Parco delle Fiabe, adding a magical touch to the experience. For more details, you can visit the official event page here( CastelliEmiliaRomagna, eventiemilia.it).
Valtidone Wine Fest
The Valtidone Wine Fest is another key event, spanning the entire month of September across various towns in the Val Tidone area, such as Borgonovo Val Tidone, Ziano Piacentino, Alta Val Tidone, and Pianello Val Tidone. Each town features a unique theme centered around local wine varieties like Ortrugo and Malvasia. This festival not only offers wine tastings but also showcases the local culinary traditions with food pairings, making it a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. For more information, visit the Valtidone Wine Fest official website(Valtidone Wine Fest,Emilia Romagna Turismo).
Sagra dell’Uva e del Lambrusco Grasparossa in Castelvetro di Modena
In Castelvetro di Modena, the Sagra dell’Uva e del Lambrusco Grasparossa takes place over two weekends in September. This festival celebrates the local Lambrusco Grasparossa wine, featuring tastings, cultural events, and a traditional parade. The “Percorso Degustazione Lambrusco Grasparossa” is a highlight, where visitors can sample different Lambrusco varieties from local producers. For more information, visit the official event page here(Visit castelvetro).
Festa del Fungo Porcino in Sant’Annapelago
For mushroom lovers, the Festa del Fungo Porcino in Sant’Annapelago is an unmissable event. Held in mid-September, this festival celebrates the porcini mushroom with local markets, themed menus, and guided foraging walks. Visitors can also enjoy music and cultural performances, making it a well-rounded event for the whole family. For more details, check the official page on In Appennino Modenese( In Appennino Modenese).
Fiera del Fungo di Borgotaro
The Fiera del Fungo di Borgotaro, held in Borgo Val di Taro, is another major event dedicated to the famous Borgotaro Porcini mushrooms. This festival spans two weekends in September and offers a rich program including cooking demonstrations, food tastings, and cultural exhibitions. Visitors can also explore the local markets and enjoy traditional music performances. More information can be found on the official website here(Fiera del Fungo di Borgotaro IGP,Agricoltura, caccia e pesca).
More Festivals
Celebrations of Local Products
Emilia-Romagna’s status as Italy’s premier food region is further emphasized through festivals celebrating its DOP and IGP products. The Festa della Coppa in Carpaneto Piacentino honors one of the region’s most famous cured meats, with gastronomic stands, live music, and a vibrant market setting the scene. Cervia’s Sapore di Sale festival is a tribute to the town’s ancient salt-making tradition, featuring cultural events, guided tours of the salt pans, and a marketplace. The Sagra del Tortellino Tradizionale in Castelfranco Emilia offers a week dedicated to the iconic tortellino, with cultural activities and culinary showcases that highlight the traditional Modenese pasta.
Rediscovering Ancient Flavors
Several festivals aim to reconnect the modern palate with forgotten or underappreciated flavors. The Festa d’la Chisöla in Borgonovo Val Tidone celebrates a traditional focaccia made with pork cracklings, a dish that has been a local favorite for generations. In Malalbergo, the Sagra dell’Ortica showcases the versatility of nettles in dishes ranging from tortellini to risotto, reminding visitors of this once-common ingredient. The Fiera della Zucca in Reggiolo focuses on pumpkin, offering medieval-themed entertainment alongside a variety of pumpkin-based dishes.
Sweet Delights and Honey
The end of September is also a time to indulge in sweetness, with events like the Festa del Miele in Poggio Torriana, where the golden nectar is celebrated in the medieval setting of the Montebello Castle. This festival not only highlights honey’s role in local cuisine but also its cultural significance.
Community and Tradition
Beyond food, these events also emphasize community and tradition. The Festival dell’Ospitalità in Bertinoro, with its long-standing tradition of welcoming visitors, and the Sagra delle Sfogline in Massa Lombarda, which celebrates the art of handmade pasta, are prime examples. The Festa di San Michele in Bagnacavallo blends religious observance with cultural activities, offering a comprehensive experience of the town’s heritage.
Conclusion
Emilia-Romagna in September is a feast for the senses, where every weekend offers an opportunity to explore the region’s culinary diversity. Whether it’s through savoring the first press of the season’s grapes, indulging in earthy mushrooms and truffles, or rediscovering ancient flavors, these festivals provide a deep dive into the heart of Italian food culture. Each event not only celebrates the season’s bounty but also fosters a sense of community, bringing people together to share in the joys of good food, good wine, and good company. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the region’s September festivals offer an authentic taste of Emilia-Romagna’s rich gastronomic traditions.