Chianni Village Fair

A tradition spanning the centuries

The Chianni Village Fair is much more than just a local festival: it is the revival of an ancient custom that, in small towns like this village in the Valdera area, in the province of Pisa, was a fundamental appointment for community life. The fair originated from a medieval privilege once granted by the feudal lord to a town or city, and for centuries — from the 15th century until the 1950s — it was the primary moment for trading goods between locals and those from neighboring villages. During those days, products of all kinds were put on sale, reserved for the local population and visitors who could purchase them at more affordable prices.

From the cattle fair to today's market

Until the 1950s, in the nearby area of La Pescaia, a cattle fair was also held on the same day, a sign of how deeply this event was tied to the rural economy of the Pisan hills. Over time, the fair has changed its face: today, the streets of the center are filled with market stalls offering sweets, crafts, clothing, and various goods, keeping alive the atmosphere of a traditional village market from days gone by. The event takes place in the heart of the historic center, between Piazza della Chiesa and the village streets.

A day of celebration for the whole village

The Village Fair is an event that involves the entire Chianni community. In the morning, the festivities spread through the town center, with the market and entertainment accompanying residents and visitors. In the afternoon and evening, the focus shifts to two highly anticipated moments: the traditional tombola, managed by the Misericordia of Chianni in Piazza della Chiesa, and the grand open-air dinner set up in the streets of the center, organized collectively by the town's associations. There is no shortage of entertainment for children, making the day suitable for the whole family.

The associations that bring the fair to life

The credit for keeping this tradition alive goes to the dense network of associations in Chianni. The Pro Loco of Chianni, the Misericordia, the Sagra del Cinghiale, and the Amatori di Chianni collaborate every year to organize the event, particularly the collective dinner which attracts numerous participants and for which booking is usually required.

Chianni, a village to discover

The fair is also the perfect opportunity to discover Chianni, a small municipality in Tuscany nestled among the hills, chestnut woods, and olive groves of Valdera. The village, with its medieval layout, is also known for its tradition linked to truffles and wild boar, and in summer it hosts a rich calendar of events that enliven its squares and streets.