Centennial October Fair

A Centuries-Old Fair in the Heart of Alto Ferrarese

The Centennial October Fair is the most anticipated autumn event in Bondeno, a municipality in the province of Ferrara, in Emilia-Romagna. As the adjective "centennial" suggests, the event has roots in a tradition of over a century: born as a festival linked to the end of agricultural harvests in the countryside of Alto Ferrarese, it has grown to become a full-fledged trade fair, with commercial stands, exhibitions, gastronomy, and shows that fill the historic center for five days.

Bread Takes Center Stage: The Village of Bread

One of the fair's beating hearts is the Village of Bread, set up with courses, tastings, workshops, and competitions dedicated to bread and its myriad uses. Among the most cherished initiatives is the challenge of the "Coppia d'Oro", the competition among local bakeries in preparing the typical Ferrara bread, complete with an evening awards ceremony. There are also workshops for children, with kindergarteners called upon to become budding bakers, and popular contests like guessing the weight of the bread basket.

Truffle, Beer, and Autumn Flavors

• Truffle Festival — the prized local truffle is celebrated with stands, tastings, and traditional dishes, curated by local associations.
• Craft Beer Festival — organized by the Pro Loco of Bondeno, featuring local beers and accompanying specialties.
• Mycology Exhibition — the exhibition of mushrooms, now in its many editions, hosted in the cloister of the Società Operaia.
• Food and wine stands, typical products, and autumn specialties along the streets and squares of the center.

Culture, Shows, and Entertainment

In addition to flavors, the fair offers book presentations, historical and archaeological meetings on local memory, exhibitions, vintage car and motorcycle rallies like the Panarea Trophy, and many musical evenings with concerts, DJ sets, and shows on Viale della Repubblica and in the squares. The funfair operates for the entire duration of the event, ensuring fun for families and young people.

An Event by the Associations of Bondeno

The strength of the Centennial October Fair lies in its collaborative nature: the Municipality of Bondeno coordinates, but it is the dense network of Pro Loco, volunteer associations, and local groups that brings the program to life. It is a precious opportunity to discover the identity of a plain town tied to the land, the Panaro River, and its farming traditions, and to experience the authentic atmosphere of a town fair that has managed to endure through time without losing its spirit.