Mushroom Festival
Two September weekends of mycology, autumn flavors, and climbing
About Mushroom Festival
The mushroom takes center stage in Quistello
In Quistello, a municipality in the province of Mantua in the heart of the Oltrepò Mantovano, the Mushroom Festival is one of the most beloved autumn events. Organized by CAI Quistello, the local section of the Italian Alpine Club, it takes place over two weekends in September in Piazza Carlo Alberto Dalla Chiesa, transforming the town into a meeting point for enthusiasts of mycology, nature, and good food.
The mycological exhibition
The highlight of the festival is the mycological exhibition curated by the Gruppo Micologico Bresadola of Mantua: over 200 species of mushrooms on display and explained, with experts available to the public for identification, questions, and curiosities. A valuable opportunity to learn about the world of mushrooms, combining scientific value and education, which is also crucial for the safety of mushroom pickers.
Seasonal flavors
Alongside the exhibition, the covered food stall offers mushroom-based dishes, while the market of local food and wine products showcases the flavors of the Mantua region. There are also demonstrations, such as bread making, and tasting sessions that highlight seasonal cuisine.
Nature, music, and climbing
True to the Alpine Club's spirit, the Mushroom Festival also dedicates space to sports and nature, with musical and sporting events and an artificial climbing wall that entertains both adults and children. It is this blend of mycology, gastronomy, and outdoor activities that makes the Mushroom Festival of Quistello, in Lombardy, a benchmark event for autumn in the Oltrepò Mantovano.
Mushroom Festival — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of the Mushroom Festival is expected over two September weekends in Quistello, following the established format that highlights the mycological exhibition and autumn flavors.
Organized by CAI Quistello, the festival will again feature the exhibition by the Gruppo Micologico Bresadola of Mantua, mushroom-based food stalls, a market for local products, and sports and musical activities. The exact dates and detailed program will be announced by the organizers in the weeks prior.
Programme Mushroom Festival 2026
Based on recent editions, the Mushroom Festival is structured over two weekends with:
- Mycological exhibition by the Gruppo Micologico Bresadola of Mantua, featuring over 200 species of mushrooms and experts available to the public.
- Covered food stall offering mushroom-based dishes, mainly open in the evenings and for lunch on holidays.
- Market of local food and wine products from the Mantua region.
- Demonstrations (including bread making), musical, and sporting events.
- Artificial climbing wall organized by CAI.
The program with dates and times will be published by CAI Quistello.
Highlights Mushroom Festival 2026
Prices Mushroom Festival 2026
Practical information — Mushroom Festival
Where
Piazza Carlo Alberto Dalla Chiesa, Quistello (MN), Oltrepò Mantovano.
How to get there
By car from SP413 or SP496, between Mantua and Ostiglia; by train to Mantua and then a local connection.
Admission
Free admission to the mycological exhibition and the market. Food and drinks at the food stall are at your own expense.
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Where does it take place — Mushroom Festival
Piazza Carlo Alberto Dalla Chiesa, Quistello