Tinca and Asparagus Fair

The Tinca and Asparagus Fair in Poirino

Every year, at the beginning of May, the historic center of Poirino, in the province of Turin and the heart of the Piedmontese Pianalto, transforms into a large, widespread celebration. The Tinca and Asparagus Fair is one of the most cherished food and wine events in the Chierese and Pianalto areas: for six days, the town's squares, streets, and cultural venues host food stalls, exhibitions, musical performances, sports events, and moments dedicated to rural tradition. Admission to all activities is free.

Two local delicacies

The fair originated in the post-war period from the local farming community's desire to promote the area's iconic products, and over time it has become a staple for residents and visitors alike. The absolute stars are two delicacies of the Pianalto:

• The Tinca Gobba Dorata del Pianalto di Poirino, a freshwater fish raised in characteristic peschere—small ponds managed by breeders who are often also asparagus growers—which has held Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status since 2008.
• Local asparagus, a spring vegetable deeply rooted in the agricultural tradition of the Pianalto and Chierese regions.

Gastronomy and showcooking

The heart of the fair remains the table: food stalls offer traditional dishes based on tinca (tench) and asparagus, while showcooking sessions feature local chefs. For the 2026 edition, in collaboration with Confagricoltura Torino, the show saw local chefs compete in preparing dishes based on the two iconic products under the guidance of a technical jury.

Entertainment, sports, and tradition

Alongside gastronomy, the fair offers a rich and varied program: the agricultural fair with awards for breeders and farmers, the Tincathlon Race and the Culurà Race, vintage car rallies, photography and painting exhibitions, gymnastics and dance performances, musical evenings and DJ sets, children's shows, and the funfair in Piazza Italia throughout the event. The festival concludes with the Poirino Talent Voice singing competition.

A local landmark

Supported by the Metropolitan City of Turin and organized by the Pro Loco of Poirino, the fair represents a moment of strong identity for the municipality and the entire Pianalto area, capable of weaving together taste, tradition, culture, and fun into one great town festival.