Fumetti al Ricetto – International Comics Festival of Candelo

Comics meet the medieval village

Fumetti al Ricetto is the international festival of comics, illustration, and cosplay that brings the Ricetto di Candelo to life every autumn. Located in the heart of the Biella region in Piedmont, it is one of the best-preserved medieval villages in Italy. Launched in 2015 as a small local initiative, the event has grown edition after edition to become one of the most anticipated appointments for the ninth art in northwest Italy, attracting thousands of visitors each year to the ancient cobblestone alleys of the Municipality of Candelo, in the province of Biella.

A journey through authors and exhibitions

The workshops and historical spaces of the Ricetto turn into open-air studios where Italian and international authors meet the public, sign their works, and share behind-the-scenes stories of their craft. True to its international vocation, the festival has always reserved a special focus for guests of honor from the Land of the Rising Sun, fostering a constant dialogue between European comics and Japanese manga culture. The route features exhibitions of original artwork, autograph sessions, and a rich market showcasing publishers, comic book stores, and emerging artists.

Cosplay, workshops, and activities for everyone

The beating heart of the event is the cosplay contest, a parade of characters and costumes that colors the village while rewarding the creativity and tailoring skills of the participants. The Ricetto also becomes a large, family-friendly creative park, featuring:

• drawing, coloring, and illustration workshops for children and teenagers;
• thematic workshops dedicated to manga, modeling, and fantasy worlds;
• play areas, reading corners, and activities designed for all age groups;
• meetings and talks with screenwriters, illustrators, and industry leaders;
• a food & beverage area for a break between exhibitions.

An experience in the Ricetto di Candelo

What makes Fumetti al Ricetto truly special is its setting: strolling through the walls, towers, and alleys of the fortified village while original artwork, costumes, and drawn stories come to life around you is an experience that blends historical heritage with contemporary pop culture. The event is organized by the Pro Loco of Candelo in collaboration with the cultural association Creativecomics, with the support of the Municipality of Candelo and under the artistic direction of illustrator Daniele Statella.