Feast of the Re-start and Palio of the Helm

A Tradition Born in 1976

The Feast of the Re-start is one of the most beloved events in Massa Lombarda, a town in the Bassa Romagna region of the Province of Ravenna, in Emilia-Romagna. Established in 1976 to accompany the resumption of parish community activities after the summer break, the festival has grown over the years to become a focal point for the entire town. Organized by the local Catholic Community, its heart beats at the Oratorio di San Paolo, on Via Gian Battista Bassi, which comes alive for days with shows, music, and conviviality.

A Week of Events for the Whole Community

The program unfolds over two weekends, featuring live concerts by local bands, theatrical performances, themed evenings, and plenty of entertainment for children. There's also an international cuisine night, bringing the flavors of different cultures present in the area to the town square in a spirit of togetherness and celebration.

The Romagna Food Stand

The pulsating heart of the festival is the renowned food stand, which every evening offers traditional Romagna specialties: from homemade tortellini to "orecchioni della Ripresa" (a local pasta), polenta with ragù, grilled meats, fried pizza, "cresciona" (a savory pie), and typical desserts. The stand opens in the evening and, on Sundays, also for lunch – an opportunity to gather around the table and support the community's activities.

The Palio del Timone, the Challenge Between Districts

The most anticipated moment is the Palio del Timone, a competition of strength and skill that has pitted the four city districts against each other since 1976: San Paolo, Bolognano, San Giovanni, and Meletolo. On the final Sunday, after Mass and a captivating costume parade with the Musici and Sbandieratori group, the teams compete in the tournament. Six shooters per district vie to rotate a "timone" (helm) and position it in the designated area of the palio. The race, structured with rounds and finals, ignites the local rivalry between the districts and involves the entire citizenry.

An Event Not to Be Missed

Blending tradition, faith, and community spirit, the Festa della Ripresa is one of Massa Lombarda's defining events. For visitors to the Bassa Romagna in early September, it's the ideal occasion to discover an authentic popular festival, far from the major tourist circuits and deeply rooted in the territory.