Appennino Outdoor Fest
Two days dedicated to nature, sport, and outdoor tourism at Parco del Chiù in Pontecchio
About Appennino Outdoor Fest
A festival for nature and outdoor sports lovers
The Appennino Outdoor Fest is the event in Sasso Marconi, in the province of Bologna, that focuses on outdoor tourism and the rediscovery of the Bologna Apennines. The event takes place at the Parco del Chiù, a green oasis in the hamlet of Pontecchio, and transforms this corner of Emilia-Romagna into a large base camp for hikers, cyclists, families, and the curious for an entire weekend.
Promoted by Appennino Slow in collaboration with the Municipality of Sasso Marconi and the Parco del Chiù Association, the festival was created to showcase the territory that rises from Sasso Marconi towards the mountains, made up of trails, villages, and historic paths like the Via degli Dei and the Via della Lana e della Seta.
What to do at the festival
The program combines sport, culture, and fun for all ages. Among the most popular offerings you'll find:
- Guided excursions and walks to discover places of historical interest, from the 18th-century village of Colle Ameno to the Oasi di San Gherardo.
- E-bike tours in the hills surrounding the valley.
- Sports activities for everyone: climbing on an equipped wall, trying out various sports and disciplines on-site.
- Creative workshops and initiatives designed for children.
- Shows, music, and entertainment that liven up the park at sunset.
Eating and drinking at Parco del Chiù
There is also a food & drink area, with the park's kiosk, street food, and a restaurant offering a menu inspired by the flavors of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines: an opportunity to taste local products between activities.
A free event in the heart of the Bologna Apennines
Admission to Parco del Chiù is free and the event is perfect for those looking for an active weekend, immersed in greenery and just a few kilometers from Bologna. The Appennino Outdoor Fest is the ideal gateway to discover the slow tourism of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines, amidst nature, tradition, and sport.
Appennino Outdoor Fest — edition 2026
The 3rd edition of the Appennino Outdoor Fest enlivened the Parco del Chiù in Pontecchio (Sasso Marconi) on Saturday, May 23 (3:30 PM–11:00 PM), and Sunday, May 24, 2026 (10:00 AM–10:00 PM). Promoted by Appennino Slow with the Municipality of Sasso Marconi and the Parco del Chiù Association, it offered two days dedicated to outdoor tourism with excursions, sports activities, guided tours, cultural initiatives, and attractions for all ages. The 2026 edition was enriched with new offerings such as electric enduro motorcycles and drone demonstrations, along with a food area featuring Tuscan-Emilian Apennine cuisine and street food. Free admission.
Programme Appennino Outdoor Fest 2026
Saturday, May 23 (3:30 PM - 11:00 PM)
- Excursions and guided tours to the 18th-century village of Colle Ameno and the Oasi di San Gherardo
- E-bike tours in the hills of the Reno Valley
- Climbing tower: 8-meter climbing wall with instructors
- Curling rink on a synthetic surface
- Free trials of electric enduro motorcycles
- Drone demonstrations by Traildrop Drone
- Sports to try: Spikeball, Fit Walking Yoga, baseball
- Creative workshops: Lego, crochet, clay, and a workshop dedicated to the world of bees
- Musical performance "Suoni nel Bosco" (music workshop)
- Theater/dance performance "Blu Tango"
- Kamishibai and puppet show for the whole family
- Evening DJ set with Ferro & Dallas Dj
Sunday, May 24 (10:00 AM - 10:00 PM)
- Full day of excursions, e-bike tours, and guided tours
- Exhibition area dedicated to the region's trails: Via degli Dei and Via della Lana e della Seta
- Sports activities, workshops, and shows for families and children
- Food & drink area open all day
Full program at www.infosasso.it/outdoorfest.
Highlights Appennino Outdoor Fest 2026
- 8-meter climbing tower and synthetic curling rink (2026 novelty)
- Free trials of electric enduro motorcycles and drone demonstrations
- Guided excursions to Colle Ameno and Oasi di San Gherardo
- Shows for families: "Blu Tango", kamishibai, and puppets
Prices Appennino Outdoor Fest 2026
Practical information — Appennino Outdoor Fest
Where it takes place
Parco del Chiù, Pontecchio Marconi locality, Municipality of Sasso Marconi (BO), Emilia-Romagna.
How to get there
By train: Sasso Marconi or Pontecchio Marconi station on the Bologna–Porretta line (frequent regional trains from Bologna Centrale). By car: Sasso Marconi exit from the A1 motorway or the SS64 Porrettana along the Reno Valley.
Admission and hours
Admission to Parco del Chiù is free. Hours vary on the two days: generally starting in the afternoon on Saturday and from morning to evening on Sunday.
Tips
Bring comfortable shoes for excursions and clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Many activities are designed for families and children.
Information
infoSASSO, tel. +39 051 6758409 — full program at www.infosasso.it/outdoorfest.
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Where does it take place — Appennino Outdoor Fest
Parco del Chiù