Saints' Fair

A fair rooted in peasant tradition

The Saints' Fair is one of the oldest and most characteristic events in the municipality of Civitella di Romagna, in the heart of the Bidente Valley, in the province of Forlì-Cesena (Emilia-Romagna). It takes place every year on November 1st, All Saints' Day, perpetuating a centuries-old custom: that of organizing the largest market of the year on the occasion of the Saints' feast. For one day, the entire village transforms into a large meeting space dedicated to agriculture, craftsmanship, and trade, attracting visitors from all over Romagna.

The cattle exhibition and calf market

The agricultural heart of the fair beats in Piazzale Berlinguer, where the traditional Cattle Exhibition and Calf Market for Resale is held, organized in collaboration with the Regional Breeders Association. It is a living re-enactment of the ancient livestock market that animated these valleys, alongside the exhibition of farmyard animals and an appreciated exhibition of historic tractors that traces the history of agricultural mechanization in the area.

Stalls, craftsmanship, and the 'piazza del gusto'

For the occasion, the historic center fills with about 200 stalls selling food and non-food products, invading the streets and squares of the town. There is also the craft market, farmer's market stalls, and the 'piazza del gusto', a space dedicated to typical products of the Romagna region. Among the stalls, you can find itinerant shows, artistic workshops, and entertainment that make the day lively for adults and children alike.

Autumn flavors: the food stalls

Gastronomy is one of the souls of the fair. In Piazza Giordano Bruno, the food stall offers traditional local dishes such as lasagna, polenta with ragù, tripe, and sausage with beans, while in the afternoon, fried and griddle piadina are served. These are complemented by the Chestnut Festival, with steaming roasted chestnuts and excellent mulled wine to warm up autumn days.

An event for the whole community

Organized by the Pro Loco of Civitella di Romagna with the support of the Municipality, the Saints' Fair is much more than a market: it is a moment of collective celebration that intertwines rural memory, conviviality, and promotion of the territory. Admission is free, and the event unfolds along the entire historic center, from morning until late afternoon.