Il Borgo dei Balocchi

A Playful Afternoon in the Village of Humanism

Il Borgo dei Balocchi is the festival that every spring dedicates the heart of Castiglione Olona, in the province of Varese, to children and families. For an afternoon, the historic courtyards and the central Piazza Garibaldi of the Renaissance village fill with games, laughter, and activities, transforming one of the symbolic places of Lombard Humanism into a large space for shared fun.

Workshops, Games, and Shows

The program is very rich and designed for all ages: educational workshops, traditional wooden games curated by local artisans, animated readings, fairy tales, and shows. Among the offerings are the "Puppet Ambulance" by the Red Cross for the little ones, shows by Mangiafuoco, 7-a-side foosball, and table tennis. Local nursery schools, organizations, and the many associations that animate the Castiglione community bring the event to life.

Adventure at the Palazzo Branda Castiglioni Museum

Among the most recent innovations is the initiative "Adventure at the Palazzo Branda Castiglioni Museum: an interactive journey into Humanism", which opens the doors of one of the village's jewels to an experience designed for younger audiences. It's an opportunity to discover, through play, the extraordinary Renaissance heritage of Castiglione Olona, the village commissioned by Cardinal Branda Castiglioni as a small "Tuscan Island" in Lombardy.

A Free Community Event

Promoted by the Municipality of Castiglione Olona with the patronage of the Province of Varese and the involvement of local groups and associations, Il Borgo dei Balocchi is completely free. Refreshment stands run by local entities complete an afternoon that focuses on children, the culture of play, and the enhancement of one of Lombardy's most beautiful villages.