Saint James Fair

A tradition born in the 14th century

The Saint James Fair is one of the most cherished events of the summer in Langhirano, a town in the Apennines in the province of Parma, in Emilia-Romagna. Its roots go back to the 14th century: a document from 1354 attests to the existence of an Oratory of San Giacomo and an attached hospital for travellers and pilgrims. Around this religious and welfare centre, the weekly market and the annual fair developed, which has been held on July 25th, the day dedicated to the patron saint of travellers and merchants, ever since.

A fair between plain and mountain

Saint James was the protector of those who travelled to the great European fairs, and in Langhirano his feast day became an occasion for exchange between the products of the plains and those of the mountains. This commercial and popular vocation is still the soul of the event today, which transforms the historic centre into a large, free-entry meeting place every year.

Street food, cured meats, and tradition

The gastronomic heart of the fair is the street food area, set up along the village streets with selected food trucks and local specialities. The renowned local cured meats, starting with Prosciutto di Parma, of which Langhirano is the capital, are a must-try, to be enjoyed outdoors for an aperitif or a dinner under the stars. Alongside the food stalls, there are market stalls, crafts, and the traditional funfair, much loved by families.

The San Giacomo Arte Festival

Complementing the gastronomic offerings is the San Giacomo Arte Festival, which brings live music, DJ sets, and street artist performances to the village streets: jugglers, soap bubble shows, fire shows, and activities for children liven up the evenings until late at night. Concerts in Piazza Ferrari and itinerant shows make the fair an event suitable for all ages.

An event by the Municipality of Langhirano

The event is promoted by the Pro Loco of Langhirano in collaboration with the Municipality of Langhirano, with the involvement of local associations. For those visiting the province of Parma at the end of July, the Saint James Fair is the ideal opportunity to discover an Apennine village, its gastronomic excellences, and a festive tradition that has lasted for almost seven centuries.