Here’s a vibrant peek at what Italy looks and tastes like in September: sun-kissed festivals, colorful processions, and tasty street fare, all captured in these visuals. Now, let’s explore the best things to do across Italy in September 2025—including top food fairs and cultural celebrations.
Must-See Festivals & Food Events in Italy – September 2025
1. Venice International Film Festival (Venice Lido)
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Dates: 27 August – 6 September 2025
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Highlights: World-famous film premieres, red-carpet glamour, and international cinema showcased under the Golden Lion spotlight; features include films like La grazia and Dog 51 along with Lifetime Achievement recognitions for Werner Herzog and Kim Novak. Wikipedia
2. Festival delle Sagre – Asti
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When: The weekend of the second Sunday in September
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What to Expect: A massive open-air gastronomic feast with over 80 traditional Piedmont dishes cooked by local communities, set alongside a colorful parade with 3,000 participants donning rural period costumes. Wikipedia
3. National Porcino Mushroom Fair & Tortellino Festival – Emilia-Romagna
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Dates:
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Porcino Mushroom Fair: 12 September 2025
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Sagra del Tortellino & Festa di San Nicola: 14 September 2025
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Location: Near Bologna
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Highlights: Celebrate local porcinis and handmade tortellini with rich fillings—a delicious dive into Emilia-Romagna’s culinary heart. dolcevia.com
4. Cheese Slow Food Fair – Bra (Piedmont)
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Dates: 15–18 September 2025
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About: A notable fair embracing the Slow Food philosophy, with artisan cheesemakers showcasing their finest creations. A perfect event for cheese lovers. dolcevia.com
5. International Boat Show – Genoa (Salone Nautico)
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When: 18–23 September 2025
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Highlights: One of the world’s most prestigious boat shows, featuring the latest in yacht and marine innovation, held at Genoa’s harbor. dolcevia.com
6. Taste of Borders – Gorizia (Gusti di Frontiera)
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Likely timing: Late September
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Details: A lively food and wine festival set in Gorizia’s historic center, with stands grouped by global regions, plus music, performances, and culinary shows. https://www.go2025.eu
7. Emilia Food Fest – Carpi (Emilia-Romagna)
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Dates: 26–28 September 2025
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About: Three days celebrating Via Emilia’s gastronomic traditions—local flavors served in a festive open-air atmosphere. events.lovelyitalia.com
8. Bauernbrot & Strudel Market – Bressanone/Brixen (South Tyrol)
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Dates: 28 September – 1 October 2025
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Experience: A charming market dedicated to South Tyrolean breads and strudels in Bressanone’s picturesque Piazza Duomo. dolcevia.com
9. Pordenonelegge – Pordenone Book Festival
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When: Early to mid-September
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What’s Important: A week-long literary festival across Pordenone with exhibitions, author talks, and cultural events—one of Italy’s most prominent book festivals. Wikipedia
10. Festival of Saint Eufemia – Irsina (Basilicata)
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Dates: 14–17 September (peak on 16 Sept)
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Features: Traditional procession handing over the town’s keys to the bishop, followed by fireworks, concerts, and a pop concert finale. Wikipedia
11. Autolook Week – Turin (Motorsport Festival)
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Dates: 26–28 September 2025
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Highlight: A high-energy motorsport and auto heritage event featuring classic racing cars (e.g., Ferrari F80) staged across Turin’s streets. Wikipedia
Why September is a Perfect Time to Visit Italy
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Pleasant Weather & Fewer Crowds: Expect milder autumn weather, warm seas, and comfortable sightseeing conditions with thinner tourist crowds across popular spots like Amalfi Coast and Sicily. Daily TelegraphCondé Nast TravelerVogue
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Local Festivals Abound: From rustic fairs like Festival delle Sagre to literary gatherings and food celebrations, September brings authentic local charm to the forefront.
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Beach Bliss in Sicily or Calabria: Towns like San Vito Lo Capo and Tropea offer stunning beaches, delicious regional dishes, and peaceful ambience—especially outside of high season. The Sun+1
Suggested Itinerary Ideas
| Region | Festival/Event | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Venice | Film Festival (27 Aug–6 Sept) | Cinema & glamour |
| Piedmont (Asti/Bra) | Food festivals (mid-September) | Gastronomy & local traditions |
| Emilia-Romagna | Mushroom & Tortellini fairs, Carpi Food Fest | Regional specialties & street food |
| Liguria or Sicily | Beaches + Festivals like Cous Cous Fest | Sun, sea, and seafood delight |
| Basilicata | Saint Eufemia Festival | Cultural and religious tradition |
| Turin | Autolook Week (motorsports) | Car enthusiasts |
| Pordenone | Pordenonelegge Book Fair | Literature lovers |
Final Tips for Planning
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Confirm dates as some festivals have varying schedules and may shift; always check official event sites.
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Book early for accommodations in small towns or during popular festival weekends.
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Mix experiences, balancing cultural events with sun-soaked relaxation—for example, follow a food festival in Asti with a tranquil beach stay in Sicily.