Stacciaminaccia

A festival that puts children at the center

Stacciaminaccia is the children's literature festival promoted by the Municipality of Fermignano, in the Province of Pesaro and Urbino, in the Marche region. Born in 2016 from the experience of the Donato Bramante Municipal Library, the event has grown to become a reference point for families, schools, educators, and operators in the sector throughout the territory. The name, evocative of nursery rhymes and popular counting rhymes, well describes the spirit of the event: bringing young children closer to reading and illustrated books through play, voice, and wonder.

An artistic direction with a theme each year

Under the artistic direction of Alice Toccacieli, each edition revolves around a theme that becomes the common thread of readings, performances, and workshops. Initially conceived for the 0-6 age group, over the years the festival has broadened its scope to the entire community, transforming into a widespread educational and cultural journey that crosses the historic center of Fermignano, the library, squares, and city spaces.

Readings, workshops, and shows

The program combines various forms of language dedicated to childhood:

• Readings aloud and storytelling from illustrated books (picture books and silent books);
• Creative workshops for children, teenagers, and adults, from illustration to play with materials;
• Theater and participatory shows and performances in the squares;
• Exhibitions and moments of reflection for parents, teachers, and educators.

Schools as protagonists and collaboration with ISIA Urbino

Stacciaminaccia directly involves local schools—from the municipal nursery to private and state kindergartens—with programs that begin months before the festival through training seminars for teachers. Central to the event is the collaboration with ISIA Urbino: students from the illustration course contribute each year to building the visual identity of the event, creating posters and coordinated graphics.

A spring event in the Marche region

Traditionally held between May and June, the festival takes place in the heart of Fermignano, a small town in the Upper Metauro Valley, famous for being the birthplace of the Renaissance architect Donato Bramante. For a few days, the village fills with children, books, and voices, confirming the Marche region's commitment to making children's culture a shared heritage. Admission to events is free.