Castle of Surprises
The grand spring festival for families and children at Castello Dal Pozzo in Oleggio Castello
About Castle of Surprises
A fairytale festival on Lake Maggiore
The Castle of Surprises is one of the most beloved family events in north-eastern Piedmont. It takes place in Oleggio Castello, a small town in the Province of Novara overlooking Lake Maggiore, within the historic setting of Castello Dal Pozzo, with its centuries-old park and lake views. For a few days in spring, the residence turns into a real-life theme park, where every corner hides a show, a character, or an activity.
A live theme park for the little ones
The event follows an "all-inclusive" ticket model: once inside, families can freely enjoy the numerous themed areas, with entertainment repeating throughout the day. Experiences include:
- School of Magic on the castle terrace, featuring potions, divination, wand duels, and a talking hat;
- Princess Area, with meet-and-greets and dances in the grand hall and the Courtyard of the Coats of Arms;
- K-pop and live music with interactive shows where the audience sings and dances;
- Bee-dance with the characters from Maya the Bee;
- the Enchanted Path in the park, with installations and characters like Merlin the Wizard.
Relaxation and wellness for adults
The program is not just for children: the Castle of Surprises also dedicates spaces to adults, with a relaxation oasis, itinerant soundscapes in the park, and yoga and meditation sessions in nature. In recent years, a Snoezelen room has been introduced—a multisensory stimulation environment designed for younger children, reflecting the event's commitment to inclusion.
A nationally awarded event
Organized by Grotta di Babbo Natale (Lem s.r.l.), a company specializing in family events, the Castle of Surprises has grown edition after edition, receiving national recognition as one of the best Italian events for children and teenagers. It takes place over a few days between April and May 1st, with limited capacity and mandatory booking: it is now a staple of the spring season on Lake Maggiore and throughout Piedmont.
Castle of Surprises — edition 2026
2026 Edition
The 2026 Castle of Surprises was held over four days between spring and the beginning of May at Castello Dal Pozzo in Oleggio Castello, overlooking Lake Maggiore. The "Family Fun & Relax" formula was confirmed, with themed areas and entertainment included in the ticket. After the final day, the organizers announced their return for spring 2027.
Programme Castle of Surprises 2026
2026 Dates
- Sunday, April 19
- Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26
- Friday, May 1
Areas and Shows
- K-pop & Music — The Huntrix as the main musical attraction, with bands and interactive shows where the audience sings and dances.
- Bee-dance — A national premiere featuring characters from the official Maya the Bee musical (50th anniversary).
- Princess Area — Meet-and-greets and dances in the Castle Hall and the Courtyard of the Coats of Arms.
- School of Magic — On the terrace: potions, divination, magic wand duels, and a talking hat.
New Wellness Experiences
- Snoezelen room (multisensory relaxation for children)
- Yoga and meditation in nature for children and parents
- Soundscape path with itinerant installations in the park
- Relaxation oasis dedicated to adults
All activities were included in the ticket, with access by reservation and limited capacity.
Highlights Castle of Surprises 2026
Prices Castle of Surprises 2026
Practical information — Castle of Surprises
How to get there
Castello Dal Pozzo is located on Via Visconti in Oleggio Castello (NO), in a panoramic position over Lake Maggiore. By car: Arona – Lake Maggiore motorway exit, just a few minutes from the castle. By train: Arona station, reachable via the Milan–Domodossola line, followed by a short drive or taxi ride to Oleggio Castello.
Tickets and booking
Admission is by paid ticket and requires advance booking, with limited availability. The ticket includes shows, entertainment, access to themed areas, and souvenir photos. A flexible date option valid for 12 months is available. For bookings and updated rates, visit the official website, email [email protected], call +39 0323 497349, or contact via WhatsApp at +39 348 0120346 (Monday–Friday 8:30–12:30).
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes to explore the castle park and arrive early to enjoy all the themed areas, which offer rotating entertainment throughout the day.
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Where does it take place — Castle of Surprises
Castello Dal Pozzo
Via Visconti, 28040 Oleggio Castello