Saint Catherine's Fair
The historic sweet fair that opens the Christmas season in Forlì, every November 25th in the San Biagio district
About Saint Catherine Forlì
A tradition that smells of nougat
The Saint Catherine's Fair is one of the most cherished events in the Forlì calendar: every year, on November 25th, on the occasion of the feast of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, the charming Piazzetta Don Garbin, in front of the Church of San Biagio, transforms into a sweet open-air market. It is here, in the heart of the Municipality of Forlì, in the Province of Forlì-Cesena, that the city officially kicks off the Christmas holiday season.
Sweets, gifts, and festive atmosphere
The true star of the fair is artisanal nougat, available in a thousand variations, alongside the famous "caterine", shortcrust pastry biscuits glazed with sugar or chocolate that take their name from the saint herself. Among the more than forty stalls, you will also find candies, sweets of all kinds, gift items, and toys for children, in a warm and welcoming atmosphere that draws families and curious visitors from all over Romagna.
The nougat of brides
The fair preserves an ancient Romagnola custom: that of nougat to be given to brides and lovers, a symbolic gesture of affection and devotion linked to the figure of Saint Catherine, once greatly venerated in Forlì and Ravenna. A popular tradition that, still today, accompanies the day with a touch of romance.
The start of Christmas in Forlì
It is not just a food and wine event: the Saint Catherine's Fair marks the beginning of the calendar of initiatives dedicated to Christmas in Forlì. Strolling among the stalls on this day means entering the festive mood, amidst lights, the scent of sweets, and the cheerful chatter of the San Biagio district.
How it unfolds
- Fixed date: November 25th every year
- Time: from 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM
- Location: Piazzetta Don Garbin, in front of the Church of San Biagio
- Free and open admission
Saint Catherine Forlì — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of the Saint Catherine's Fair will be held on Wednesday, November 25th in Forlì, faithful to the traditional date linked to the feast of Saint Catherine of Alexandria.
The fair will take place in Piazzetta Don Garbin, in front of the Church of San Biagio, from 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM. Admission is free and open.
Programme Saint Catherine Forlì 2026
November 25, 2026 — Day's program
- 7:30 AM — Fair opening and setup of over 40 stalls in Piazzetta Don Garbin
- Throughout the day — Sale of artisanal nougat, the typical "caterine" (glazed shortcrust pastry biscuits), sweets, candies, gift items, and toys for children
- 8:00 PM — Closing
The program follows the established formula of the historic fair: an open-air market of sweets and gifts, without a stage or shows, focused on the stalls and the atmosphere of the San Biagio district.
Highlights Saint Catherine Forlì 2026
Prices Saint Catherine Forlì 2026
Practical information — Saint Catherine Forlì
Where
Piazzetta Don Garbin, in front of the Church of San Biagio, Forlì (FC). The fair takes place in the city center, easily accessible on foot from the main squares.
When
November 25th, from 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM. Free admission.
How to get there
By train: Forlì station, a short distance from the center. By car: Forlì exit of the A14 highway, then follow signs for the city center (parking near the historic center is recommended). For information: Forlì Municipality Markets Office (tel. +39 0543 712513) or IAT office (tel. +39 0543 712362).
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Where does it take place — Saint Catherine Forlì
Piazzetta Don Garbin (Chiesa di San Biagio)
Piazzetta Don Pietro Garbin, 47121 Forlì