Great Fair of San Vitale

A Patronal Feast in the Heart of the Spa Town

The Gran Fiera di San Vitale is the most cherished event in the calendar of Salsomaggiore Terme, in the province of Parma, in the heart of Emilia-Romagna. The event originated around the feast of the Patron Saint, San Vitale, celebrated on April 28th, and over the years has transformed into a long spring festival that enlivens the city center for over two weeks. The elegant Art Nouveau streets of the spa town, a short walk from the famous Terme Berzieri, become a widespread stage for music, tradition, and conviviality for the occasion.

Music and Shows

The music program is one of the fair's strong points. The evocative Gazebo in Viale Romagnosi hosts concerts by I Musici di Parma, bringing great classical and band music just a stone's throw from the thermal baths. The Odeon Cinema offers tribute shows, such as the anticipated homage to Nomadi, while the town squares come alive with DJ sets and street artist performances that accompany residents and visitors throughout the event.

The Flavors of the Food Valley

Along the streets of the center, stands offer the best of Parma's Food Valley: from mountain Parmigiano Reggiano to local cured meats, accompanied by wines from the surrounding hills. Alongside the food and wine specialties, there are craft markets, the traditional city market with special exhibitions, and the reuse market, a showcase for second-hand items and creativity.

Families, Children, and Tradition

The fair pays great attention to families. The classic funfair entertains young and old, while the MuMAB organizes educational workshops for young paleontologists. As part of San Vitale for Children, interactive workshops, itinerant masks, and a photo contest take place, along with the selection of the San Vitale symbol, chosen from logos designed by the children.

Sport, Nature, and Sustainability

The recent edition stands out for its focus on sustainability and the territory: the Bici in Comune initiative offers guided bike tours to discover the castles and landscapes surrounding the spa town. There are also skating exhibitions, sports tournaments, and moments of religious celebration linked to the figure of the Patron Saint. A choral event that tells the identity of Salsomaggiore and the entire province of Parma.