Are you a fan of autumn, warm colors, and seasonal flavors? Then you can't miss the Regional Pumpkin Fair held on the first weekend of October each year in Piozzo, a charming little village in the province of Cuneo, Piedmont.
A Must-See Event for Pumpkin Lovers
The Regional Pumpkin Fair of Piozzo is much more than a simple festival; it's a true celebration of this versatile gourd. Every year, the event attracts thousands of visitors from all over, all curious to admire the more than 450 varieties of pumpkins on display. From the tiny, decorative 'Jack Be Little' to the gigantic 'Atlantic Giant', the shapes, colors, and sizes will leave you speechless.
Secure your lodging for a holiday in the Langhe and Roero.
During the fair, the town center transforms into a colorful open-air market. Here, local growers and producers of pumpkin-based specialties showcase their products. You'll have the opportunity to taste unique delicacies: from pumpkin gnocchi and risotto to jams and sweets all strictly pumpkin-themed. It's the perfect place to discover new flavors and stock up on all kinds of pumpkins, whether for cooking or for decorating your home for Halloween.
Beyond Food: Creativity and Tradition
But the Pumpkin Fair isn't just about gastronomy. Pumpkins are also the stars of artistic exhibitions and creative workshops. You can admire masterfully carved sculptures and participate in workshops to learn how to create your own perfect pumpkin decoration. The atmosphere is made even more festive by musicians, street performers, and games for the little ones. It's the ideal event for a day trip with family or friends, a chance to experience autumn in all its magic.
Unmissable Fair Highlights
To make sure you don't miss the best parts, here are some of the main highlights that make the Piozzo Pumpkin Fair a unique event. In addition to the large market of pumpkins and typical products, you can attend culinary demonstrations, where expert chefs reveal the secrets to preparing delicious pumpkin-based dishes. Don't miss the highly anticipated heaviest pumpkin contest, a moment of great excitement and cheering as the year's carefully grown giants are unveiled. For the kids, there are carving and painting workshops, while adult visitors can take part in guided tastings of craft beers brewed with pumpkin.
The Most Fun Anecdotes and Curiosities
Over the years, the Piozzo Fair has provided unforgettable moments. One of the most curious anecdotes involves the heaviest pumpkin contest. The competition is so serious that growers spend the entire year caring for their "super pumpkins," hoping to break the record. It often takes forklifts and cranes to move the orange giants, and the stunned faces of visitors in front of these marvels are a show in themselves! It's also said that some chefs, discovering unusual pumpkin varieties for the first time, have been inspired to create new and original recipes, turning a simple curiosity into a culinary invention.
Book your accommodation for your vacation in the Langhe and Roero.
The Heart of Piozzo and Its Community
What truly makes this fair special is the passion and commitment of the Piozzo community. Every year, the town's residents work to make the event a success, preserving local traditions and warmly welcoming visitors. The Pumpkin Fair is a symbol of a strong bond with the land and its seasons, an opportunity to rediscover the value of small things and the beauty of rural life.
If you want to have an authentic experience and immerse yourself in the autumn atmosphere, mark the Regional Pumpkin Fair of Piozzo on your calendar. You won't regret it!
For more information and to plan your visit, check their website: https://www.prolocopiozzo.it