Looking for an authentic Italian experience this August? Oltrepò Pavese, just over an hour from Milan, is the perfect destination to spend Ferragosto 2025 surrounded by nature, medieval villages, delicious food, and centuries-old traditions.

From August 11 to 17, 2025, the rolling hills between Pavia and the Apennines will come alive with a packed calendar of festivals, outdoor events, and food & wine experiences celebrating the beauty, flavors, and rural culture of this unspoiled corner of Lombardy.

Unmissable Ferragosto Events in Oltrepò Pavese

The Moon and the Shooting Stars
From August 11 to 13, 2025, the Cà del Monte Astronomical Observatory in Cecima, in the hills of the Staffora Valley, offers a romantic date under the stars. Watch the Perseids — the famous August shooting stars — from the large open-air amphitheater. Bring pillows and blankets for comfort, and wear suitable clothing for the evening outdoor temperatures (a sweatshirt and windbreaker are recommended). More info: www.visitpavia.com/it/evento/la-luna-e-le-stelle-cadenti

Bosme River Sound
On August 12, the riverbanks in Bosmenso, a hamlet of Varzi, come alive for the second edition of Bosme River Sound — a summer festival with live music, shows, and street food. Tickets available on liveticket.it — www.bosmeriversound.it

Night Market in Varzi
On August 13, from 6:00 pm, the streets of Varzi’s historic center will host craft, food, and gift stalls, plus street food, music, and performances. A magical evening awaits you in the heart of Oltrepò Pavese. More info: Nuova Proloco di Varzi

La Paciada dei Malfatti
On Thursday, August 14, book your place in the cool hills of Fortunago, one of Oltrepò Pavese’s most charming villages, for a musical dinner featuring traditional “Malfatti” — breadcrumb and herb dumplings served with ragù or butter and sage, prepared on the spot by the women of the village. Reservation required until seats are sold out: +39 335462279 – Proloco di Fortunago

Ferragosto in the Hills – Pietra de’ Giorgi
On the evening of Friday, August 15, starting at 8:00 pm, the scenic village of Pietra de’ Giorgi hosts the much-loved “Ferragosto in Collina.” Enjoy an open-air night surrounded by rolling hills, authentic flavors, convivial atmosphere, and music. More info: www.visitpavia.com/it/evento/ferragosto-collina-pietra-de-giorgi

Green Ferragosto – Pietra Corva
Looking to escape the summer heat during the Ferragosto weekend? From August 15 to 17, head to the Pietra Corva Botanical Garden in Romagnese, located 1,000 meters above sea level in the Apennines. Surrounded by centuries-old beech trees and fresh mountain air, enjoy a special three-day program combining nature, music, science, and wonder. More info: www.visitpavia.com/it/evento/ferragosto-nel-verde-pietra-corva

Medieval Days in Zavattarello
From August 15 to 17, the Dal Verme Castle in Zavattarello takes visitors back to the 15th century. Bring the whole family and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of the Middle Ages. More info: www.facebook.com/events/1772147513671997

Agosto Montuese
From August 16 to 23, Montù Beccaria celebrates the 59th edition of its wine festival. Eight evenings of original menus served at table, concerts under the stars, and a vibrant young team making the event unforgettable. Every night, a well-stocked bar and restaurant service will be available. More info: www.visitpavia.com/it/evento/agosto-montuese

White Carnival of Cegni
On Saturday, August 16, the traditional White Carnival returns to Cegni, a folkloric event unique to the upper Oltrepò Pavese. Dedicated to the symbolic wedding between the “ugly man” and the “poor woman,” it celebrates the culture of the “Four Provinces” area (Pavia, Piacenza, Alessandria, and Genoa). More info: www.visitpavia.com/it/evento/carnevale-bianco-di-cegni

Free Guided Hikes in Monte Alpe Nature Reserve
On Sunday, August 17, ERSAF Lombardia offers two free guided tours (by reservation) in the Monte Alpe Nature Reserve in Menconico. Tours at 10:00 am and 3:00 pm last about 2 to 2.5 hours and cover 3–5 km on easy trails, exploring the local flora and fauna with expert naturalists. More info: www.visitpavia.com/it/evento/monte-alpe-escursioni-gratuite-nella-riserva-naturale

Festa di Bocco
On Sunday, August 17, starting at 7:00 pm, the village of Bocco, a hamlet of Brallo di Pregola, hosts its traditional Festa di Bocco. Locals, visitors, and holidaymakers gather to enjoy the warm, authentic atmosphere of a small mountain village in the Upper Staffora Valley. More info: www.facebook.com/frazionebocco

Quattro Province in Musica
On Sunday, August 17, at 9:15 pm, Vicomune (a hamlet of Cigognola) hosts an unmissable concert as part of the Ultrapadum Festival 2025. The Ensemble Enerbia will perform a repertoire celebrating the traditional music of the Apennines’ “Four Provinces.” More info: www.visitpavia.com/it/evento/quattro-province-musica

• Only 90 minutes from Milan, but far from the tourist crowds

• Rolling hills perfect for hiking, cycling, and wine-tasting

• Medieval villages, castles, and authentic rural charm

• Traditional cuisine with local wines, cold cuts, cheeses, and risottos

• A summer calendar full of authentic Italian festivals

Whether you want to dance at a riverside concert, taste DOC wines among the vineyards, or watch shooting stars in the countryside, Oltrepò Pavese offers a Ferragosto you’ll never forget.