Bonfire Festival

A centuries-old tradition in the heart of Romagna-Toscana

The Bonfire Festival is the major identity event of Rocca San Casciano, a municipality in the Province of Forlì-Cesena nestled in the Tuscan-Romagnol Apennines, along the Montone river valley. Known throughout Italy, this event has its roots in the mists of time: born from the cult of Saint Joseph and ancient propitiatory rites for a good harvest, it is today one of the most beloved folk festivals in Emilia-Romagna.

The challenge of the two districts

The heart of the festival is the rivalry between the two historic districts of the town, Borgo and Mercato. Majestic bonfires of broom are erected on the banks of the Montone, still called "spini" today because thorns and brushwood were once used. At the stroke of evening, the two bonfires are lit simultaneously: the winner is not determined by an official jury, but by the gazes and comments of the locals. The way the bonfire "closes", the speed with which the flame flares up, and the height it reaches are the technical details, studied for months, that determine the best lighting – and which are then discussed for the whole year.

"I Botti", the floats, and the party in the square

After the magic of the fire comes the time for the famous "Botti", the pyrotechnic challenge between the two districts that lights up the valley sky. The party then moves to the historic center, where the grand allegorical floats parade with hundreds of costumed figures. The town's squares turn into open-air dance floors with DJ sets, while the Bonfire Food Festival area and the village trattorias offer specialties of Romagnol cuisine.

An event to experience

The Bonfire Festival attracts thousands of visitors to Rocca San Casciano every year, transforming the small Apennine village into a stage of fire, music, and tradition. It is the perfect opportunity to discover the most authentic Romagna-Toscana, between passionate local rivalries and a popular heritage passed down from generation to generation.