Ornithological Fair (Bird Fair)

A Marche Tradition Over Half a Century Old

The Bird Fair, officially the Ornithological Fair, is one of the most established and anticipated events in the calendar of Comunanza, a mountain inland municipality in the Province of Ascoli Piceno, in the Marche region. The event originated in the late sixties thanks to the initiative of a group of hunter friends who wanted to create an exhibition opportunity for decoy birds, hunting weapons, and equipment. From these origins, the fair has transformed into a grand popular festival that every year, on the first Sunday of October, enlivens the town's historic center and Palafiera.

The Ornithological Exhibition and Animals

The heart of the event is the ornithological exhibition: along the streets and squares of the town, you can admire incredible varieties of birds of all sizes, from songbirds with colorful plumage to exotic specimens. Alongside the birds, there are dogs, cats, farmyard animals, and pets, along with a wide range of products for animal care and feeding. Hundreds of exhibitors and commercial stalls from all over Italy complete a market that attracts visitors from all over the Piceno area and beyond.

Bird-Calling and Local Traditions

Among the most characteristic elements of the fair are the bird-calling performances, the ancient art of imitating bird songs with the voice and small instruments, with experts competing in imitations of the blackbird and the fieldfare. In recent years, the event has hosted European champions of this discipline, alongside wood sculptors, exhibitions of wild herbs, mushrooms, and truffles from the Sibillini Mountains, and discussions on the relationship between humans and wildlife. The Bird Fair has obtained the De.Co. (Municipal Designation), a recognition that certifies its identity value for the community of Comunanza.

Environment, Community, and Good Taste

In addition to the exhibition component, the fair offers a rich program of initiatives: games and workshops for children, dog shows, bird of prey demonstrations, cycling tours, conferences on the territory and its enhancement. Don't miss the unmissable roasted chestnuts and corn cooked over a fire and the food stalls with local specialties, making the day a convivial moment of good food and socializing. The event is organized by the Municipality of Comunanza with the involvement of the Pro Loco and local associations.

When and Where

The 2026 edition, the 58th, is scheduled for Sunday, October 4, 2026, in Comunanza, with the traditional exhibitions in the historic center and related events in the preceding days. Admission to the fair is free.