Ciapinabò

For over three decades, Carignano, a town in the province of Turin, has been at the heart of the Ciapinabò Fair, which this year celebrates its 31st edition from October 11 to 13, 2024. This autumn event, an integral part of the rich program of the Chierese and Carmagnolese Food District initiatives, showcases the local food and wine culture, highlighting a typical product of the area: the ciapinabò (Jerusalem artichoke). With the patronage of the Metropolitan City of Turin, the fair has become an unmissable event for lovers of tradition and Piedmontese cuisine. The Ciapinabò: the star of local flavours and culture The official inauguration will take place on Saturday, October 12, at 10:30 AM in Piazza Liberazione, but the celebrations will begin as early as Friday, October 11, at 6:30 PM, with “Salumi, che passione” at the former council hall in Piazza San Giovanni. This event, organised in collaboration with the National Salami Tasting Organization, pays tribute to the culinary excellence of the Chierese and Carmagnolese Food District. The “Island of Taste,” the fair’s food and wine centre, will open on Friday evening at 7 PM, offering visitors a variety of traditional dishes made with ciapinabò, from classic risotto to bagna caôda, and even the original Ciafrit—French fries made from Jerusalem artichokes. In addition to the culinary offerings, commercial and artisanal stalls will be available from 10 AM on Saturday and from 9 AM on Sunday, reflecting the district’s commitment to promoting local excellence. The Ciapinabò Fair as an artistic and cultural expression In addition to its culinary focus, the fair stands out for its rich cultural and artistic program. Art enthusiasts can visit painting exhibitions by Giuseppe Bertinetti and Luigi Argentero, as well as a photography exhibit at Villa Bona dedicated to the Carignano Carnival, an event that reflects the roots and traditions of the area. For agriculture enthusiasts, the 19th edition of the Local Show of Friesian Cattle will be held in Piazza Savoia, featuring animal parades, competitions for young breeders, and milking demonstrations, all in line with the agricultural traditions of the district. Radio Vida Network will broadcast live from the fair, offering the opportunity to follow the event remotely and engaging a broader audience. Sunday will also feature the traditional cattle transhumance, an event celebrating the bond between the land and livestock farming, with a route passing through the historic centre of Carignano, emphasising the importance of agriculture and livestock in the Chierese and Carmagnolese Food District. For more details and reservations, you can visit the official website of the Municipality of Carignano or the dedicated Ciapinabò Festival Facebook page. The event offers a unique opportunity to discover and celebrate the flavours, traditions, and culture of an area rich in history and gastronomic excellence.