Silvano d'Orba Festa dell'Unità

The Silvano d'Orba Festa dell'Unità

The Silvano d'Orba Festa dell'Unità is a summer staple deeply rooted in the community of this town in the Province of Alessandria, in the heart of south-eastern Piedmont along the Orba stream. Originally a gathering place for the Italian left, the festival has evolved over the decades into a grand celebration of local conviviality, open to everyone, where good food and music take centre stage. In 2026, the event celebrates its 74th edition, cementing its status as one of the region's most enduring popular festivals.

Where and when

The festival takes place at the Stefano Rapetti Municipal Sports Centre, the sports ground named after a distinguished local citizen, nestled in the greenery near the Orba stream. The spacious outdoor area comfortably accommodates food stands, the dance floor, and tables where families and friends gather for dinner. The dates for the 2026 edition are set for July 24th, 25th, and 26th.

The festival cuisine

The heart of the event has always been the food stand, managed by volunteers from the local club. The menu blends "surf and turf" flavours: recent editions have featured everything from seafood linguine to Piedmontese agnolotti, grilled sausages to seafood appetizers like fried anchovies and squid, all paired with wines from the surrounding hills. It is genuine, hearty cuisine that fuses the rural traditions of the Monferrato and Ovadese areas with a touch of the seaside.

Music, dancing, and gatherings

After dinner, the festival continues with dance evenings hosted by DJs, keeping crowds of all ages on their feet until late. Alongside the entertainment, there is no shortage of cultural moments and public discourse, with book presentations and open meetings. In the past, authors and local officials have been hosted for debates on current affairs, keeping alive the spirit of participation that lies at the origin of the Feste dell'Unità.

A town-wide event

For Silvano d'Orba, the Festa dell'Unità is one of the most anticipated moments of the summer, attracting visitors from neighbouring towns in the Ovadese and Alessandria areas. Admission is free, and the atmosphere is that of a simple, warm Piedmontese village festival, where people sit at long tables, chat, and dance under the lights of the sports centre. It is the perfect opportunity to discover the hospitality of this corner of Piedmont between the hills and the river.