Fira di Sdaz

La Fira di Sdaz, the peasant fair of Sasso Marconi

The Fira di Sdaz is one of the oldest and longest-running traditional events in Emilia-Romagna. Its origins date back to the 17th century and are rooted in the historic Fiera di Pontecchio, an agricultural event that has been renewed annually for over three centuries at the end of summer in the territory of Sasso Marconi, in the Metropolitan City of Bologna. The Bolognese dialect name refers to the sdàz, the sieve once used to separate flour from bran: a humble object that has become the symbol of an entire peasant civilization.

Two hearts: Colle Ameno and Parco del Chiù

The fair takes place in two evocative and complementary locations. On one hand, the eighteenth-century Borgo di Colle Ameno, an ancient historic complex surrounded by greenery, which hosts artisan workshops, creative labs, exhibitions, and concerts at the Osteria di Colle Ameno. On the other, the Parco del Chiù in Pontecchio Marconi, where the more rural soul of the event comes to life with the RuralSas exhibition area: agricultural producers, vintage machinery and tools, farmyard animals, threshing demonstrations, and the unmissable tractor rally with a parade.

Flavors and tradition

The Province of Bologna is a land of great gastronomy, and the Fira di Sdaz is an authentic showcase of it. Among the stalls and stands, you'll find street food, wines, craft beers, the unmissable crescentine (fried dough pockets), and the special fair hamburger. The peasant inn and restaurants offer traditional Apennine dishes, while Slow Food presidia tell the stories of local flavors. Admission to the event is free.

For the whole family

Alongside food and crafts, there are also events for children and families: creative workshops, carousels, the Little Museum of Fairy Tales and Stories, animated readings, and archery lessons. In the evening, the village comes alive with live concerts, DJ sets, country nights, and musical moments that continue late into the night, giving Sasso Marconi a September of celebration and shared memory.