Fishermen's Festival

A festival born from the river

The Fishermen's Festival in Villafranca Piemonte, located in the heart of the Province of Turin and the Pinerolo territory, celebrates one of the oldest activities in this corner of Piedmont: fishing along the Po River. For centuries, the river was a source of sustenance, work, and identity for the local community. Every year, on the last weekend of September, the town renews its bond with its roots, transforming its streets and squares into a grand stage for flavors, memories, and conviviality.

Fish-based flavors

The gastronomic heart of the event is the RistoPalatenda, where you can savor the festival's signature dishes, alongside the famous Fish Stall set up on Via San Francesco. The grand fried seafood platter kicks off the festivities, followed by evenings of fish dinners, midnight spaghetti feasts, and social gatherings that attract food lovers from the surrounding area. The festival's kitchen is managed by the RistoPalatenda staff with the support of the Pro Loco, local associations, neighborhood committees, and the Municipal Civil Protection Group.

Tradition, fairs, and folklore

The Fishermen's Festival is about more than just gastronomy. The official ribbon-cutting is accompanied by the investiture of the Pescadoira and folk masks, the awards ceremony for the photography contest, and a performance by the Santa Cecilia marching band. The highlight days feature a livestock fair with a cattle show, a vintage tractor rally, the Moto Day, bocce tournaments, the reconstruction of the historic "Vijà" farmhouse, and numerous exhibitions:

• Antiques and second-hand market
• Hobbyists' market and Creativity Day
• Art exhibitions by the Friends of the Po and local artists
• "Fish in the Window" competition among local shops
• Fireworks display over the Po and musical evenings with DJ sets and concerts

For all ages

The event offers workshops and activities dedicated to children and families, guided tours of local historic sites, moments dedicated to the elderly and the community, and the "Magical Villafranca" entertainment. It is a participatory event that involves the entire town, from neighborhood groups to sports associations, offering an authentic glimpse of a community deeply connected to its river and traditions.

When it takes place

The Fishermen's Festival is traditionally held on the last weekend of September, with the Fishermen's Fair day closing the festivities. It is one of the premier events on the calendar for Villafranca Piemonte and southern Piedmont, successfully combining local identity, hospitality, and fine cuisine.