Monferrato National White Truffle Fair

A Monferrato Tradition

The Monferrato National White Truffle Fair is one of the most anticipated autumn events in Montechiaro d'Asti, a historic hilltop village in the heart of the Monferrato region, in the province of Asti (Piedmont). For nearly forty years, the event has drawn enthusiasts, food lovers, and curious visitors to the charming setting of the historic center, around Piazza Umberto I, to celebrate the undisputed king of the autumn table: the Tuber magnatum Pico, the prized white truffle.

Truffle Country

Montechiaro d'Asti boasts a rich truffle-growing heritage. Its territory is home to "Il Grande Bosco" (The Great Forest), a reserve of approximately fifty hectares spread across the Bariello, Beronco, and Seria valleys, considered one of the largest truffle reserves in Italy. During the fair, the Educational Truffle Ground offers demonstrations of truffle hunting with dogs and the trifulau (truffle hunter), moments highly appreciated by schools, families, and tourists eager to discover the fascinating world of this subterranean fungus.

The Day's Program

The fair traditionally takes place over a single, intense Sunday. The village streets and squares fill with stalls dedicated to truffles, typical Monferrato products, and local crafts. The program blends tradition with entertainment:

• Truffle market and local food and wine stalls throughout the historic center
• Historical pageant with flag-wavers and musical groups
• The Truffle Hunter's Mass, a moment of deep identity for the local community of hunters
• Awards ceremony for the best truffles presented in the competition
• Truffle lunch hosted by local restaurants
• Activities and workshops for children and families
• Comedy and entertainment shows at the Palatartufo

Culture and Identity

The event is part of a rich cultural calendar that enlivens Montechiaro d'Asti from June to November, including tours of the Romanesque Network in the Hills and the Monferrato parish churches. The village also preserves precious historical artifacts, such as the Codex Montechiarensis, a 12th-century manuscript, and has been linked for half a century to the famous Palio of Asti. The Truffle Fair is thus not only a gastronomic occasion but also a journey into the identity of this corner of Piedmont, where rural tradition, culture, and hospitality merge into a single celebration.

Why Visit

Visitors to the fair can purchase fresh truffles directly from the trifulau, discover the authentic flavors of Monferrato, and immerse themselves in the genuine atmosphere of an event that maintains a deep bond with the land. An unmissable experience for those who love high-quality gastronomy and wish to discover one of the iconic products of Piedmont.