Ferrara Food Festival

The festival of taste in the heart of Ferrara

The Ferrara Food Festival is the major food and wine event that animates the historic center of the Este capital in Emilia-Romagna every autumn. For three days, the city's main square transforms into an open-air stage, enlivened by a rich calendar of completely free initiatives, designed for residents, gourmets, and visitors from all over Italy. Promoted with the patronage of the Municipality of Ferrara, the event focuses on the excellences of Ferrara's gastronomic tradition, from historic pastry shops to local IGP-certified products.

The squares and spaces of the event

The festival takes place in the most evocative squares of the city. In Piazza Trento Trieste, at the foot of the Cathedral, you can discover and purchase typical products from the Ferrara region, while Piazza Castello and Piazza Savonarola, around the majestic Este Castle, host specialties from other Italian regions. The heart of the events is Piazza Municipale, where the area dedicated to appointments with big names in haute cuisine is concentrated.

Cooking shows, masterclasses, and guests

In the event area of Piazza Municipale, cooking shows, culinary challenges, and guided tastings follow one another, along with masterclasses, talks, interviews, and awards ceremonies, all with free admission. Over the years, the festival has brought nationally renowned chefs and personalities to Ferrara, alongside producers, food artisans, and figures from the television and gastronomic world. Itinerant shows, animation, and entertainment complete the program, making the experience suitable for families too.

A city to experience

Visiting the Ferrara Food Festival is also an opportunity to discover one of Italy's most fascinating art cities: the historic center of Ferrara, with the Este Castle, the Cathedral, and its medieval and Renaissance streets, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Between one tasting and another, visitors can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the city of the Este family, capital of Renaissance court cuisine and home to specialties such as salama da sugo, coppia ferrarese, and pampepato.

A free event for everyone

Admission to all areas and all initiatives of the Ferrara Food Festival is free. The event is open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM on all days, offering a full day of tastings, shows, and meetings in the heart of the province of Ferrara.