A day of engines, road safety, and entertainment at the Varano Racetrack
The ACI Parma Festival is the event promoted by the Automobile Club Parma that transforms the Riccardo Paletti Racetrack in Varano de' Melegari, in the province of Parma, into a large theme park dedicated to the world of engines for a day. Conceived as a day open to everyone, the event combines on-track entertainment, educational moments on road safety, and activities for all age groups, from children to the most expert enthusiasts.
The event is part of the rich automotive fabric of Emilia-Romagna, the renowned Motor Valley which, between the provinces of Parma, Modena, and Bologna, has been the birthplace of the most prestigious automotive brands. The Riccardo Paletti Racetrack, named after the young Parma-born driver who tragically passed away in Formula 1 in 1982, has been a benchmark for races, tests, and driving schools for decades, hosting a busy calendar of two- and four-wheel competitions each season.
The festival focuses on the culture of responsible driving through activities that allow the public to experience the Varano track up close:
In addition to dynamic activities, the paddock hosts exhibitions of historic and modern cars, vintage military vehicles as part of the "Stefano Schia" Memorial, remote-controlled model car demonstrations, and professional esports simulators from the Varano Sim Room. For the younger ones, there are play activities, while the day traditionally concludes with the Grande Parata ACI (Grand ACI Parade), a symbolic moment that brings together all participants. An event that, in the municipality of Varano de' Melegari and the province of Parma, celebrates the passion for engines by combining it with the message of road safety.
The 2026 edition of the ACI Parma Festival was held on Sunday, April 26, confirming the formula that puts engines, safety, and fun for all ages at its center. Activities began in the morning with track sessions dedicated to road vehicles, continuing throughout the day with experiences and demonstrations.
Among the main offerings were Hot Laps aboard cars like the Dallara Stradale and Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio driven by professional test drivers, the thrills of Taxi Drift, and the Mini Skid educational course on safe driving. The paddock hosted historic and modern cars, vintage military vehicles, radio-controlled models, and the esports simulators from the Varano Sim Room. The day concluded with the traditional Grand ACI Parade.
Indicative program based on information released by the organization; detailed schedules for individual experiences will be announced on-site.
The Riccardo Paletti Racetrack is located in Varano de' Melegari (PR), along the Strada Cisa, in the hilly area southwest of Parma. By car, it can be reached from the A15 Parma-La Spezia motorway (Fornovo exit) continuing towards the Ceno Valley. Ample parking is available on site.
For details on schedules, accreditation, and booking track experiences: tel. +39 0525 551211, email [email protected], website autodromovarano.it. The organization is managed by the Automobile Club Parma.
The event takes place mainly outdoors: comfortable clothing and sun protection are recommended. Some track experiences may require booking or have limited availability.
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Autodromo Riccardo Paletti
Strada Cisa 24, 43040 Varano de' Melegari