Experience 5 days of music and traditions in the heart of Romagna
There are traditions that never grow old. They are handed down from generation to generation, smell of fresh pasta and resonate in the warm spring air.
If you are looking for the most authentic soul of Emilia-Romagna, mark these dates: May 21-25, 2026. A Castel Bolognese (in the province of Ravenna) returns the historic Festival of Pentecost. We are not talking about just any party, but an event that this year crosses the incredible milestone of the 395 editions.
Get your stomach and smile ready. We take you to discover a piece of the heart of Romagna.
A history born in the seventeenth century
To understand the magic of this festival, we need to go back in time to the 1631. In that year, as the plague raged throughout Italy, the community of Castel Bolognese made a vow to Our Lady of the Conception to ask for protection. The town was spared, and every year since then the community has gathered to give thanks and celebrate.
Today, thanks to the tireless efforts of the Pro Loco of Castel Bolognese (which recently passed 60 years) and hundreds of volunteers, the Pentecost Festival is one of the most beloved and inclusive events in the area. A perfect mix of devotion, culture and pure entertainment for all ages.
Flavors: the triumph of the Romagna table.
Let’s face it: there is no festival in Romagna without good food. The real beating heart of the festival is the large and welcoming food stand.
Sit comfortably under the huge equipped gazebo and be tempted. The menu is an ode to tradition. The categorical imperative is only one: taste a dish of handmade cappelletti. Accompany them with a good glass of wine from the surrounding hills and share the table with your family or circle of friends. The convivial atmosphere will immediately make you feel at home.
A program for all: parades, music and Luna Park
The Pentecost Festival does not stop at the table. Admission is always free and free and the program is designed to embrace anyone’s taste:
- Thursday, May 21 (The Zuba Zòvna): The festival opens with the energy of the “Young Thursday” event. From guided tours to art exhibits to the Dance and Rhythmic Gymnastics Gala. The evening heats up from 11 p.m. with a DJ set for dancing under the stars.
- Friday, May 22: It is the day of tradition par excellence. Don’t miss the Parade of Parishes with the Castellate (the floats with wine barrels) and the evocative re-enactment of ancient crafts. Accompanying the parade are the Banda del Passatore and the famous “Sciucarén” (the Whips of Romagna). This is followed by a leap into the past by dancing to the hits of the Crazy ’90s.
- Saturday, May 23: In the afternoon, space for children and families with the Photo Treasure Hunt and music school performances. In the evening, get ready to sing with the Frank David Live show 80-90.
- Sunday, May 24: The day combines spirit with folklore. In the morning, the solemn Mass of the Vow. In the afternoon, the classic bicycle race, and in the evening, the square lights up with the unmistakable “POPular FOLK orchestra” of Mirko Casadei.
- Monday, May 25: Closing with a bang. First the drawing of the very rich and beloved Tombola (with 5,000 euros in prize money), followed by the unforgettable voice of Alan Sorrenti in concert.
And for the duration of the festival? You’ll find the Book Corner, reuse and vinyl markets, art exhibits and Romagna’s largest and most fun Luna Park, perfect for making the eyes of the younger ones sparkle!
Useful Information
- When: May 21-25, 2026.
- Where: Castel Bolognese (Ravenna) – Old Town and surrounding areas.
- Admission: Free performances and access to the festival.
- How to get there: Castel Bolognese can be easily reached by train (on the Bologna-Rimini line) or by car, taking the Via Emilia or the A14 highway.
This May, choose tourism that is slow, authentic and able to excite.
Romagna is waiting for you with open arms. And with a plate of cappelletti already steaming!
