Polenta Festival of Apiro
The historic peasant festival of Apiro dedicated to polenta
Edition 2026 not confirmed to date
This edition has not been confirmed by the organiser to date. We recommend checking before going.
About Polenta Festival
One of the longest-running festivals in the Marche
The Polenta Festival of Apiro, in the heart of the Macerata province, is one of the most characteristic and long-standing village festivals in the Marche region. Born in the early Sixties, around 1962, it has grown from edition to edition to become an unmissable event at the end of September, capable of attracting visitors from all over the region. More than just a food festival, it is an authentic tribute to peasant culture and the values of working the land, recreated every year with a festive and engaging atmosphere.
Polenta, queen of the table
The absolute protagonist is, of course, polenta, prepared according to tradition and served with sauces from local cuisine, made with local ingredients. At the food stands set up for the occasion, visitors can enjoy the event's signature dish in a convivial atmosphere, rediscovering the authentic aromas and flavors of Marche peasant tradition. The festival is also an opportunity to taste other typical products and to experience the genuine hospitality of a small village in the Macerata hinterland.
Folklore, music, and popular games
The festival's program combines gastronomy, entertainment, and tradition. Among the most anticipated moments are the parade and performance of the Urbanitas folklore group, a historic Apiro entity also linked to the renowned Terranostra International Folklore Festival, which brings local folk dances and costumes back to the square. There are also live concerts and evening DJ sets, ballroom dancing and group dances, entertainment for children, as well as fun events like human foosball and the classic briscola card game competition.
Markets and exhibitions in the village
During the festival days, the historic center of Apiro comes alive with craft and typical product markets and hosts a photographic exhibition dedicated to the history of the festival and the community. Strolling through the village alleys, among stalls, kitchen aromas, and music, is the best way to discover this authentic corner of the Marche and the identity of a town that has proudly preserved its most beloved festival for over sixty years.
Polenta Festival — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of the Polenta Festival of Apiro (Macerata) is expected for the weekend of late September, around September 27-28, 2026. These dates are reported by industry calendars and have not yet been officially confirmed by the organizers: for final confirmation and the complete program, refer to the official channels of the Pro Loco of Apiro and the Municipality.
Based on previous editions, the festival will offer food stands with polenta seasoned with local sauces, markets and the photographic exhibition in the historic center, evening concerts and DJ sets, ballroom dancing and group dances, entertainment for children, and the traditional events of human foosball and the briscola card game competition, as well as the parade of the Urbanitas folklore group.
Programme Polenta Festival 2026
The detailed program for the 2026 edition has not yet been published. It will be announced by the Pro Loco of Apiro in the weeks leading up to the event.
Based on recent editions, the typical structure of the festival includes:
- Opening of food stands with polenta and traditional sauces
- Evening live concerts and DJ sets
- Parade and performance by the Urbanitas folklore group
- Ballroom dancing and group dances
- Human foosball and briscola card game competition
- Entertainment for children
- Markets and photographic exhibition in the historic center
Highlights Polenta Festival 2026
- Polenta seasoned with traditional Marche peasant sauces
- Parade of the Urbanitas folklore group
- Evenings with live music, DJ sets, and ballroom dancing
- Human foosball and briscola card game competition
Prices Polenta Festival 2026
Practical information — Polenta Festival
Where it takes place
The festival is held in the historic center of Apiro (Macerata province, Marche), with food stands, markets, and a photographic exhibition spread throughout the village.
How to get there
By car, Apiro is accessible from the SS76 (exit for the Cingoli/San Severino Marche area) and from the provincial roads of the Macerata hinterland. The nearest train stations are in Castelraimondo and San Severino Marche, which are then connected by local bus services.
Information and contacts
For details on dates and program, it is advisable to contact the Pro Loco of Apiro (tel. +39 333 1215710) or follow the official social media channels of the event and the Municipality of Apiro.
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Where does it take place — Polenta Festival
Centro storico di Apiro