On Sunday 18 October 2026, San Damiano al Colle, a small hill town in the Oltrepò Pavese (the hills south of the River Po, in the province of Pavia), celebrates the chestnut season with the Autumn Festival (Festa d’Autunno) organised by the local Pro Loco. All day long, Piazza Dallapè hosts the Grande Castagnata, the “Great Chestnut Feast”, while from 12:30 pm the Sayonara hall opens its doors for the traditional polenta lunch: a day devoted to good food, steaming roasted chestnuts and live music with the Loris Repossi Band.

The Autumn Festival is designed as a Sunday to spend in good company, at the table and in the open air, following the traditional rhythm of seasonal village festivals: lunch first, then the chestnut feast, with music accompanying the afternoon.

From 12:30 pm: The Polenta Lunch at the Sayonara Hall

The programme opens at 12:30 pm at the Sayonara hall with the traditional polenta lunch, a dish ideal for autumn days. Three options are on the menu: polenta with fried specialties (frittura), polenta with cooked salami, and polenta with gorgonzola. They are simple, hearty combinations rooted in popular tradition, perfect to enjoy around a shared table with family and friends.

In the Afternoon: The Grande Castagnata

After lunch, the festival continues with the much-loved chestnut feast. Steaming roasted chestnuts are the symbol of autumn and the simplest, tastiest way to prolong the day in good company, in the convivial atmosphere of a village festival.

Live Music with the Loris Repossi Band

The Loris Repossi Band provides the musical entertainment, getting everyone dancing, singing and having fun. It is a cheerful atmosphere, suitable for families, groups of friends and anyone who wants to spend a special Sunday in a spirit of conviviality.

San Damiano al Colle lies in the eastern part of the Oltrepò Pavese, about 25 kilometres from Pavia and about 45 from Milan, bordering Rovescala, Montù Beccaria and Bosnasco. The town is made up of many small hamlets scattered across the hills, with scenic roads lined with vineyards, ideal to explore at a relaxed pace at this time of year.

The Oltrepò Pavese is one of Europe’s most important areas for Pinot Noir, and autumn is one of the best times to visit. The Autumn Festival can therefore be the perfect occasion to combine a traditional lunch with a trip among the vineyards and a visit to nearby villages, such as Rovescala, less than two kilometres away.

The Autumn Festival takes place on Sunday 18 October 2026 in San Damiano al Colle, in the province of Pavia: the day is hosted in Piazza Dallapè, while lunch, from 12:30 pm, is held at the Sayonara hall. Booking is appreciated and can be made by contacting the Pro Loco San Damiano al Colle on +39 348 7436350, which is also the number to call for information about the programme.  

When does the Autumn Festival in San Damiano al Colle take place?

On Sunday 18 October 2026, all day long. The polenta lunch starts at 12:30 pm.

Where does the festival take place?

In Piazza Dallapè in San Damiano al Colle, in the Oltrepò Pavese. Lunch is served at the Sayonara hall.

What is on the menu at the polenta lunch?

The menu offers polenta with fried specialties (frittura), polenta with cooked salami, or polenta with gorgonzola. In the afternoon, the Grande Castagnata brings roasted chestnuts.

Do I need to book?

Booking is appreciated: to book and to get information, call the Pro Loco San Damiano al Colle on +39 348 7436350.

Who provides the live music?

The musical entertainment is provided by the Loris Repossi Band.

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