National Festival of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy
From September 26 to 28, Lake Como will be the exceptional stage for the National Festival of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy, an event that brings together visitors, delegations, and enthusiasts of culture, traditions, and gastronomy from across the country.
Opening of the Festival
The event officially kicks off on Friday, September 26 at 4:30 p.m. in Piazza Tommaso Grossi in Bellano, with a conference titled “Enhancing the Typical Products of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages.”
At 6:30 p.m., the audience will enjoy a truly special moment with the inaugural cruise aboard the historic Concordia steamboat, sailing towards Isola Comacina and the villages of Tremezzo and Corenno Plinio, gems of Lake Como.
A Weekend of Culture, Flavor, and Innovation
The rich program continues throughout the weekend:
- Saturday, September 27 begins at 9:30 a.m. with a lively parade through the streets of Bellano, followed by boat tours and guided visits. At 11 a.m., food lovers can enjoy a visit to the Valsassina dairy, with a tasting of its renowned cheeses.
In the afternoon, Piazza Grossi will host a debate on sustainable energy solutions at 3:30 p.m., followed at 5 p.m. by a conference on the use of artificial intelligence to promote Italy’s villages.
Throughout the day, there will also be show cooking and tastings, with chefs from all over Italy. - Sunday, September 28 is dedicated to outdoor experiences and key themes concerning the future of Italy’s villages, with initiatives designed to showcase their natural and scenic heritage.
Over 200 Municipalities Taking Part
The 2015 edition of the Festival features the participation of more than 200 municipalities and about 400 delegates, grouped by geographical areas.
It is a unique opportunity to share the rich mosaic of traditions, folklore, art, and culinary excellence that make Italian villages so special.
A Grand Finale on Lake Como
The three-day event will conclude on Sunday evening with the ceremony of handing over the festival flag to the village that will host the 2026 edition.
Afterwards, music, performances, and a spectacular fireworks show will light up the skies above Lake Como, giving residents and visitors an unforgettable finale.
The Festival of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy is not only a celebration of history and nature but also a reflection on the future: focusing on sustainability, innovation, and the promotion of local communities, with Lake Como providing a truly extraordinary setting.