Fira d'la Pouia and Saras del Fen Festival

A festival that tells the story of the mountains

The Fira d'la Pouia and Saras del Fen Festival is one of the most cherished events in the upper Val Pellice, held in the municipality of Bobbio Pellice, in the Province of Turin, Piedmont. Every year in mid-May, this small alpine village transforms to welcome farmers, visitors, and curious onlookers for an ancient ritual: the pouia, the ascent of livestock to summer pastures. It marks the symbolic start of the mountain season, when herds and flocks leave the valley floor for the high-altitude meadows.

The transhumance, the absolute star

The heart of the event is the livestock parade along Via Maestra: decorated cows, goats, and sheep walk through the village streets accompanied by their herders in a procession that draws hundreds of spectators. The final Sunday is dedicated to the commercial and livestock fair, with animals displayed in the fields and awards for the best specimens. For many shepherds, as they often recount, the Fira is the last true social gathering before the long summer spent up in the mountains.

Saras del Fen, the treasure of the valley

Alongside the fair, the Sagra del Saras del Fen celebrates the famous hay-wrapped ricotta typical of Val Pellice. This cheese, whether fresh or aged, derives its unmistakable aroma from the mountain hay in which it is preserved. During the festival, you can taste it alongside other local dairy excellence such as Toma d'Alpeggio and Sërvage, on a culinary journey that highlights the valley's artisanal production.

Four days of events

The event is not just about tradition: the program balances gastronomy, sports, and music. Recurring highlights include the morra tournament, street food evenings, the grand paella, tribute concerts, evening DJ sets, the Earth and Traditions market, archery and crossbow demonstrations, and activities for children like pony rides. It is a formula that bridges generations and keeps the identity of a mountain community alive.

A tradition that renews itself

Founded in 2007, the Fira d'la Pouia celebrated its twentieth edition in 2026, a testament to the deep bond between the village and its pastoral roots. In autumn, the valley experiences the mirror ritual with the Fira d'la Cal, the descent from the pastures accompanied by the Mustardela Festival. The event is organized by the Fair Committee in collaboration with the Municipality of Bobbio Pellice, the Pro Loco, the local sports club, and numerous local volunteer associations.