Ascension Festival

A Centuries-Old Festival in the Heart of Romagna

The Ascension Festival is the most anticipated event of the year in Solarolo, a small town in the province of Ravenna nestled in the plains of Romagna, in Emilia-Romagna. It is the oldest religious celebration in the town, with roots dating back to 1730, when a maiolica tile depicting the Blessed Virgin and Child broke away from the original chapel. From that moment on, devotion to the Blessed Virgin of Health, to whom numerous miracles are attributed, became the heart of the festivities, held in the days leading up to Ascension.

From Devotion to a Community Celebration

Since its refoundation in 1995, the event has been organized by the Pro Loco Solarolo, which has transformed it into a true village festival, uniting the spiritual, civic, and convivial dimensions. Today, the festival is deeply cherished by the people of Solarolo and attracts visitors from all over Romagna, becoming a five-day gathering.

Twinning: Germany and Aosta Valley in Solarolo

One of the most distinctive features of the Ascension Festival is the presence of delegations from Solarolo's two twin towns. From Kirchheim am Ries in Germany, the musical band, beer, and German gastronomic specialties arrive; from Rhêmes-Notre-Dame in the Aosta Valley, typical mountain products are featured. This blend of cultures makes the event a small European crossroads in the heart of the Romagna plain.

Gastronomy, Shows, and Tradition

Throughout the festival, the historic center hosts a gastronomic stand with Romagna specialties, alongside the German and Aosta Valley stands. The program features concerts, dance performances, comedy shows, sports competitions, and family-friendly activities. There is also an exhibition of vintage motorcycles and bicycles, an amusement park, exhibitions, and shops open.

• Gastronomic stand with typical Romagna cuisine
• German stand from Kirchheim am Ries with beer and specialties
• Aosta Valley stand with mountain products
• Concerts, folk dances, and comedy shows
• Exhibition of vintage motorcycles and bicycles, and amusement park

The Ascension Festival is now one of the most beloved fairs in Bassa Romagna, successfully combining faith, local identity, and hospitality in an event that revives the historic center of Solarolo every spring.