Palio dei Borghi / Roero Games

The Palio dei Borghi returns to Canale

In the heart of the Roero region, in Canale (Province of Cuneo, Piedmont), the Palio dei Borghi is reborn in a modern, high-energy version: the Roero Games. For nearly two months, from early June until the end of July, the districts of the town known as the "peach capital" compete in a long series of tournaments that bring the town's squares, streets, and public spaces to life.

A two-month challenge between districts

The Palio is not a one-day event, but a true multi-stage championship. The Pro Loco of Canale, together with its staff and the district captains, has built a packed calendar of competitions ranging from traditional sports to more modern games. Each district fields its own representatives and accumulates points tournament after tournament, in a crescendo of friendly rivalry and community spirit.

Scheduled disciplines include foosball, table tennis, palla schiava, pantalera (a traditional Piedmontese game), beach volleyball, football-tennis, bocce, roundnet, and card games. It is a formula that brings different generations together and even involves the youngest, with game cards and activities designed for local schools.

The Roa del Boneur, the grand finale

The event culminates with the Roa del Boneur, the multi-disciplinary challenge that closes the Palio. It is a night of great celebration, featuring a 'games without frontiers' style competition full of quizzes, skill tests, and plenty of surprises, blending competitiveness with a touch of fun. Amidst music, beer, and entertainment, this is where the winning district of the year is decided, succeeding the title previously held by the Santa Croce district.

Canale and the Roero

Canale is the main hub of the Roero, a hilly land famous for its Arneis wines and its peaches. The Palio dei Borghi fits into a summer calendar rich in events—above all the historic Peach Fair—and represents one of the most cherished moments for the local community, capable of transforming the entire historic center into one large shared playground.