Lòm a Mêrz of Argenta

The fires of March: an ancient rite that returns to illuminate the farmyards

Lòm a Mêrz (the "lights of March" in the Romagnolo dialect) are one of the most evocative propitiatory rites of the peasant civilization of Emilia-Romagna. In the last days of February and the first of March, as winter gave way to spring, peasants lit large bonfires in the farmyards and fields: by burning brushwood and dry branches, they symbolically chased away the cold season and invoked a bountiful year. Around the fire, they danced, sang, and shared food, in a collective gesture of good omen.

A widespread event throughout Romagna

Since 2000, the association Il Lavoro dei Contadini (Slow Food Community) has revived this tradition, transforming it into a widespread festival that each year lights dozens of small bonfires in numerous municipalities of Emilia-Romagna. The evenings take place in the farmyards of farms, agriturismos, and rural cultural sites, intertwining the fire ritual with conferences, exhibitions, walks, folk music, and zero-kilometer peasant dinners.

The Argenta stop, in the Ferrarese area

Among the participating municipalities is Argenta, the only outpost in the province of Ferrara in a festival with a strong Romagnola focus. Here, the event is rooted in the territory of the valleys and the Ecomuseum of the Valleys of Argenta, with an evening dedicated to readings, traditional folk songs performed by the Corale Giuseppe Verdi, tastings of local products, and the indispensable lighting of the propitiatory fire. The festival continues in the hamlets of Campotto and Val Campotto, where the Agrilocanda Val Campotto, together with the Far Gravel association, offers a day of cycling through the valleys, themed workshops, and a traditional dinner.

Ancient grains, bread, and biodiversity

The 2026 edition is dedicated to the theme "Good as Bread": from earth to bread, a journey through ancient Romagnola grains, artisanal flours, and the culture of sharing, with the aim of refocusing attention on the link between man and the environment and the defense of biodiversity. Bread, a symbol of community and hospitality, becomes the common thread of the days.

Why participate

• An authentic peasant tradition rite, experienced around the fire and not recreated for tourists.
• An opportunity to discover the valleys of Argenta and the Ecomuseum, in a little-known corner of the Ferrarese area.
• Tastings of typical products, ancient grain bread, and peasant dinners with local flavors.
• Outdoor activities for the whole family: walks, bike rides, and workshops.

Lòm a Mêrz is a free and deeply identity-driven event, capable of uniting the Municipality of Argenta and other municipalities in Emilia-Romagna around an intangible heritage that speaks of land, seasons, and community.