Elogio della Bionda – Piedmontese Blonde Hen Fair

A fair dedicated to the Piedmontese blonde hen

The Elogio della Bionda is the great autumn fair of Villanova d'Asti, in the Province of Asti (Piedmont), entirely dedicated to the Piedmontese blonde hen, an indigenous poultry breed and a prized gastronomic product of the Pianalto, the agricultural plateau stretching between the Turin and Asti areas. A festival that, edition after edition, has successfully transformed an ancient rural vocation into an event eagerly awaited throughout Piedmont.

The heart of the event: the Blonde Chicken Exhibition

The most iconic moment is the Piedmontese Blonde Chicken Exhibition, which showcases local breeders and their poultry. Among the most curious traditions is the competition to elect the "most beautiful blonde hen," a sort of beauty pageant that rewards specimens most faithful to the breed's standards. The fair is also an opportunity to discover the product's supply chain through the producers' market and guided tastings.

Gastronomy, culture, and entertainment

For three days, the center of Villanova d'Asti comes alive with a program that weaves together food, culture, and entertainment:

• Pro Loco lunch and dinner at the Palabionda, featuring typical dishes based on the blonde hen and genuine local recipes;
• Local produce market and food and wine stands from the Asti Pianalto;
• Art exhibitions and cultural initiatives in the town's halls and churches;
• Concerts, marching bands, majorettes, and choirs accompanying the days;
• Vintage tractor exhibition and demonstrations by the G.A.T.E. Association;
• Entertainment and workshops for children, with reading sessions and playful activities.

A bastion of Pianalto identity

More than just a simple festival, the Elogio della Bionda is an act of valorization for a product at risk: the Piedmontese blonde hen had almost disappeared and today represents one of the gastronomic excellences of the Pianalto district. The fair, organized by the Pro Loco of Villanova d'Asti with the support of the Municipality and local associations, has thus become a showcase for Asti's rural culture, capable of uniting the passion of breeders, the curiosity of visitors, and the pride of an entire community.