Lake Orta Pirate Festival

The Pirate Festival of Lake Orta

The Lake Orta Pirate Festival is the major summer event that brings Piazza Motta to life every year. Located in the heart of Pella—a small town in the Province of Novara on the western shore of the Cusio region in Piedmont—this lakeside square becomes a vibrant hub. For two days, the village dresses up to celebrate the charm of the Golden Age of Piracy, welcoming a large crowd (over 2,000 spectators in previous editions) with a cheerful, family-friendly spirit.

Origins

The adventure began on September 19, 2015, during International Talk Like a Pirate Day, with the first "Pirate Day on Lake Orta." From that spark, the Pirati del lago d'Orta Cultural Association was born. This non-profit group has organized the event ever since, growing year after year to become one of the most recognizable summer highlights in the Cusio area.

What to expect at the festival

Admission is free, and the atmosphere is that of a true corsair port. Recurring program highlights include:

• Best Costume Contest: Anyone arriving in pirate attire can take part in the parade and be judged by a panel; participation is free and open to all.
• Lake Orta Treasure Hunt: The main event, a genuine themed hunt that takes place on the lake and in the surrounding area, requiring mandatory registration.
• Live concerts featuring various artists, performances, and themed entertainment.
• Artisan stalls and themed stands offering food and pirate-themed products.

An experience for the whole family

With music, costumes, and the unmissable treasure hunt, the festival is designed primarily for families and children, allowing them to live out a buccaneer adventure in an exceptional landscape. The backdrop is one of the most evocative views in Piedmont: Lake Orta, with the Island of San Giulio sitting right in front of Pella, accessible by boat.

Why it is worth visiting

The Pirate Festival combines the lightheartedness of a village fair with the creativity of a themed event: an original way to discover Pella and the Cusio region in the height of summer, away from the most crowded destinations. It is an appointment that blends popular tradition, live entertainment, and play, all with the convivial spirit typical of small Piedmontese villages.