Settembre Centese / Cento Fair

A tradition lasting since 1584

The Cento Fair is one of the oldest fairs in Emilia-Romagna: its origins date back to 1584, and since then it has been held every September in the historic center of the Municipality of Cento, in the province of Ferrara. Also known as a trade fair, it is the highlight of the Settembre Centese, the extensive program of events that accompanies the city throughout the month and, edition after edition, renews its identity through markets, culture, and popular festivities.

The heart of the city: Piazza del Guercino and Corso Guercino

The nerve center of the event is Piazza del Guercino, named after the famous Baroque painter Giovanni Francesco Barbieri, known as Guercino, who was born in Cento. Along Corso Guercino and the streets of the center, the commercial exhibition area unfolds: stalls and stands with clothing, crafts, objects, typical products, and much more. The squares and streets come alive with shows, music, good food, and entertainment for all ages.

The 2026 edition: the theme "NOW"

The 442nd edition is scheduled from Thursday, September 10 to Sunday, September 13, 2026, and revolves around the theme "NOW": an invitation to citizens, businesses, young people, and associations to jointly build shared projects for the city in the present. The fair management is entrusted to the company Pirene, which has been overseeing the event for the Municipality of Cento since 2024.

Concerts and Shows

The first major announcement for the 2026 edition is the concert by Sarah Toscano, one of the most followed names in the new Italian pop scene, winner of Amici and already a star at the Sanremo Festival: she will perform on Saturday, September 12 in Piazza del Guercino. Further events, guests, and program novelties will be announced in the weeks leading up to the event and officially presented at a press conference open to the public.

More than just a market: culture, sport, and community

The Cento Fair is much more than a market: its program includes shows, musical performances, cultural moments with guided tours and openings of city museums, sports activities offered by local associations, workshops, and initiatives dedicated to children and families. The Guercino d'Oro Award and other recognitions traditionally mark the evenings, while food stalls and dedicated dining areas accompany visitors from morning until late at night.

An identity event for Emilia-Romagna

Among the historic fairs of Emilia-Romagna, the Cento Fair maintains a deep connection with its community: it is a time when the Municipality comes together, local businesses showcase themselves, and the city celebrates its roots. For visitors to the Ferrara region in September, the Cento Fair is an ideal opportunity to discover an authentic popular tradition, made of commerce, entertainment, and conviviality.