Saint Simon Fair

The most anticipated fair of the Reggio region

The Fiera di San Simone is the great autumn fair of Montecchio Emilia, a municipality in the province of Reggio Emilia, in Emilia-Romagna. With its 896th edition in 2026, it is one of the oldest and most uninterrupted fairs in Italy, rooted for almost nine centuries in the life of the Montecchio community. For three days at the end of October, from Saturday to Monday, the entire historic center — Piazza Repubblica and the adjacent streets — transforms into a large open-air market.

A tradition nearly nine centuries old

The origins of the fair date back to the Middle Ages, closely linked to the Castle of Montecchio, whose structure has been documented since at least the 11th century: this is attested by an autograph document from 1114 by Countess Matilde of Canossa. The fair is named after Saint Simon and has been passed down from generation to generation, becoming an identity-defining event for the entire Val d'Enza.

Stalls, exhibitors, and the farming world

The heart of the fair is the large market: over 250 stalls and a hundred exhibitors from the agricultural and commercial world, representing numerous Italian regions. Alongside stands selling clothing, crafts, and various items, ample space is dedicated to the farming world and typical products from the Reggio and Emilia regions.

• Food and typical gastronomy stalls
• Non-food sector: clothing, household goods, crafts
• Spaces dedicated to agriculture and rural traditions
• Funfair for families and children
• Antiques and collectibles market

The Castle and traditions

During the fair days, the medieval Castle of Montecchio opens its doors for tourist visits, allowing visitors to discover the early medieval burial ground, the ancient well, and the panoramic tower. The official inauguration traditionally takes place in the castle courtyard with the recitation of the Sansimonata, the dialect poem written by Luigi Pecchini that has officially kicked off the event for decades. The program also includes historical re-enactments, such as the re-enactment of the display of the first Tricolore of the Cispadane Republic in 1796, and civic awards.

An event for the entire Val d'Enza

More than just a market fair, San Simone is a popular festival that attracts thousands of visitors each year from Reggio Emilia, Parma, and all over Emilia-Romagna. It is an opportunity to rediscover the village of Montecchio Emilia, its castle, and its traditions, in a festive atmosphere that closes the autumn season.