Alta Valsesia Fair

The festival that concludes the alpine grazing season

The Alta Valsesia Fair is one of the most cherished events of the Valsesia autumn. Every first Sunday of October, the village of Campertogno, nestled in the heart of the Alta Valsesia in the province of Vercelli, celebrates the end of the summer mountain grazing season: the time when herds of cattle, sheep, goats, and horses return to the valley after months spent on alpine pastures. The fair is more than just a livestock show; it is a true community celebration that brings together breeders, families, and visitors to honor the region's deep-rooted farming heritage.

Animals, alpine pastures, and rural tradition

The heart of the event is the livestock gathering of animals returning from the high pastures, accompanied by local agricultural businesses. Breeders bring their alpine products to the fair: mountain cheeses, butter, and yogurt made from the milk of their herds. It is a unique opportunity to get a close look at the work of those who live in the mountains year-round and to understand the cycle of transhumance that has shaped life in the valley for centuries.

Market, workshops, and family activities

The day is filled with a rich program designed for all ages. Typical fair offerings include:

• a food and wine market featuring local specialties and mountain handicrafts;
• an exhibition of horses and meetings with agricultural sector companies;
• educational workshops and games for children and teenagers;
• guided tours exploring the agricultural vocation of Campertogno;
• exhibitions, tastings, and delicious snacks featuring local products.

Campertogno and the Valsesia Valley

Nestled among the mountains rising toward Monte Rosa, Campertogno is a village that preserves the rural and Walser identity of the Valsesia valley. The Alta Valsesia Fair, organized by the Unione Montana dei Comuni della Valsesia, takes place in the Isola district and stands as one of the main events promoting mountain agriculture in Piedmont. Attending means experiencing an authentic day filled with genuine flavors, fresh mountain air, and traditions passed down through generations.