Montaldo Bormida Farinata Festival

The Montaldo Bormida Farinata Festival

In the heart of the Monferrato Ovadese, nestled among the vine-covered hills of the province of Alessandria, the small town of Montaldo Bormida dedicates an entire festival every June to its signature dish: farinata. The Farinata Festival is a staple of the Piedmontese summer, carefully organized by the Nuova Pro Loco of Montaldo Bormida with the support of the local municipality, and takes place in Piazza Nuova Europa, the town's open-air living room.

The star of the show: chickpea farinata

Farinata is a thin, crispy savory pancake made from chickpea flour, water, oil, and salt, baked in a wood-fired oven in large copper pans. Common across Liguria and lower Piedmont, it takes on a unique, simple, and rustic flavor here, best enjoyed hot straight from the oven. Alongside the star dish, the Pro Loco food stands also offer arrosticini and other local specialties, paired with wines from the Monferrato hills.

Music, dancing, and fireworks

The festival is about more than just food: every evening, the stands open to the sound of live music and dance orchestras, keeping the square lively until late in a festive, community atmosphere. The highlight is the Saturday night fireworks display, when the sky above Montaldo Bormida lights up, offering an unforgettable show for all ages.

An authentic village celebration

More than just a food fair, the Farinata Festival is a gathering point for the entire community of Montaldo Bormida and visitors from the surrounding Ovadese and Monferrato areas. It is the ideal occasion for those looking to experience the true atmosphere of Piedmontese village festivals, defined by good food, conviviality, and traditions passed down through generations. A perfect stop to combine with a tour of the wineries and villages in the province of Alessandria.

When it takes place

The 2026 edition is scheduled from Friday, June 19th to Sunday, June 21st. The detailed program, including times and the names of the musical acts, will be announced by the Nuova Pro Loco in the weeks leading up to the event via their official Facebook page.