Natale Incontrada
The Christmas market through the streets of Silvano d'Orba
About Natale Incontrada
Christmas arrives in Silvano d'Orba
In the heart of the Alto Monferrato, just a few kilometres from Ovada and the rolling vineyards of the Alessandria province, the village of Silvano d'Orba transforms into a quaint Christmas village for Natale Incontrada. Launched in its winter format in 2022, the event is the festive spin-off of Silvano InContrada, the summer festival that animates the town's historic districts. For an entire day, the streets and squares of the old town are decked out in holiday cheer, welcoming residents and visitors from neighbouring towns in a warm, communal atmosphere.
Markets, gift ideas, and local flavours
The heart of the day is the Christmas market winding through the town centre, where local exhibitors, hobbyists, and businesses showcase handicrafts, gift ideas, and holiday-themed creations. There is a strong focus on local food and wine, featuring typical products from the Ovada Monferrato area—such as spirits from the historic Gualco distillery, baked goods, honey, and other regional delicacies—alongside street food options for those who want to dine while strolling through the stalls.
For families and children
Natale Incontrada is, above all, a festival designed for families. Children can meet Santa Claus to deliver their letters, while magical Christmas characters roam the streets. The event also features live music, with the local marching band performing in the morning, and unique attractions like a vintage off-road vehicle display that draws enthusiasts from all over.
A growing local event
In recent years, the event has seen growing interest, with organisers frequently closing exhibitor registrations early due to reaching maximum capacity. This is a testament to the vitality of this small Piedmont community, which uses events like this to showcase its historic centre and local production. The initiative is promoted by the Municipality of Silvano d'Orba in collaboration with the Pro Loco of Ovada and the Monferrato Ovadese.
Natale Incontrada — edition 2026
The date for the 2026 edition of Natale Incontrada is confirmed for Tuesday, December 8, 2026, on the occasion of the Immaculate Conception feast, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM along the streets of Silvano d'Orba's centre.
The detailed programme has not yet been published. Based on previous editions, the day will feature a market with exhibitors and typical local products, street food, the presence of Santa Claus for letter collection, children's entertainment, and music from the local marching band. The full programme will be announced by the organisers in the weeks leading up to the event.
Programme Natale Incontrada 2026
The detailed programme for the 2026 edition has not yet been published. The official date is confirmed for December 8, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, in the streets of Silvano d'Orba's centre.
Based on past editions, the following are expected: a Christmas market with exhibitors, handicrafts, and gift ideas; food and wine products from the Ovada Monferrato area; street food; letter delivery to Santa Claus and children's entertainment; and musical accompaniment by the local marching band. The final programme will be communicated by the organisers in the weeks preceding the event.
Highlights Natale Incontrada 2026
- Christmas market through the historic centre
- Typical products and local gift ideas
- Santa Claus and children's entertainment
- Street food and live music
Prices Natale Incontrada 2026
Practical information — Natale Incontrada
When
The 2026 edition is scheduled for Tuesday, December 8, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, throughout the historic centre of Silvano d'Orba.
How to get there
By car: Silvano d'Orba can be reached via the A26 motorway (Ovada exit), continuing towards the town centre; it is just a few kilometres from Ovada. By train: the nearest station is Ovada, on the Genoa-Acqui Terme line, with onward travel by bus or car. During the event, the centre is pedestrianised, so it is advisable to park in the surrounding areas.
Admission
Access to the market and entertainment is free.
Information
For updates on dates and the programme, we recommend checking the website of the Municipality of Silvano d'Orba and the channels of the Pro Loco of Ovada and the Monferrato Ovadese.
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Where does it take place — Natale Incontrada
Centro storico di Silvano d'Orba