Alba Truffle Festival 2024: Dates and Events - What to Do?

The Alba White Truffle International Festival is one of the most anticipated autumn events. If you’re passionate about truffles, gastronomy, or Italian culture, this is a must-attend occasion. Held from October to December, the festival offers a packed schedule of events. Here are four unmissable experiences that will make your visit unforgettable

1. Historical Reenactment and Palio degli Asini

The Alba Truffle Festival is not just a culinary celebration but also a unique opportunity to relive the city's medieval history. The Historical Reenactment kicks off the event, featuring over 500 costumed performers.

With more than 6,000 spectators expected, this grand procession will transport you back in time with nobles, knights, and townspeople.

The highlight of the event is the Palio degli Asini, a humorous and entertaining race involving donkeys, poking fun at the more famous Palio of Asti. It’s a must-see experience, immersing you in Alba’s festive and historical atmosphere.

📅 Where and when: Piazza Risorgimento, Alba, October 5, 2024, from 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM.

2. Slow Food Earth Market

For those who love high-quality and sustainable products, the Slow Food Earth Market is a key attraction at the festival.

Here, you can buy fresh, local produce including fruit, vegetables, cheeses, honey, wine, and products made with the famous hazelnuts from the Langhe region, all sourced within a 50 km radius.

This market isn’t just about buying—it’s a chance to learn about the region’s food culture and discover the Slow Food philosophy, which promotes biodiversity and environmentally-friendly farming practices. If you’re looking to bring a taste of Piedmont home, this is the place to visit.

📅 Where and when: Piazza Pertinace and Via Gardini, Alba, from October 12 to December 8, 2024, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

3. Baccanale dei Borghi

After the historic donkey race, the festivities continue with the lively Baccanale dei Borghi, a celebration filled with food and fun. Each of Alba’s boroughs sets up food stalls along the city’s streets, offering traditional dishes to passing visitors.

From tajarin with truffle to grilled meats, the streets of Alba transform into an open-air gastronomic feast.

But Baccanale is more than just food—there are plenty of games and competitions for both kids and adults, with prizes ranging from wine bottles to playful trophies. Each borough competes to serve the best dishes, creating a lively atmosphere of friendly rivalry and cheer.

📅 Where and when: Piazza Risorgimento and Piazza Pietro Rossetti, Alba, from October 19 to 20, 2024, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

4. Eternal Iris: Turn Your Eyes into Art

For a truly unique experience, don’t miss Eternal Iris, a special photo session that turns your eyes into timeless works of art. Each iris is unique, and thanks to cutting-edge technology, Eternal Iris captures the beauty and mystery of your eyes in stunning detail.

During the session, you’ll be welcomed into a comfortable, professional setting, where expert photographers will highlight the hidden nuances of your eyes.

Eternal Iris offers an exciting way to immortalize the individuality of your gaze, transforming an intimate moment into a personal masterpiece.

Whether you're doing it for yourself or as a special gift, this experience will allow you to take home a lasting memory of the Alba Truffle Festival.

📅 Where and when: Alba. Always available, by appointment only. For more information and reservations, click here

The Alba Truffle Festival is much more than a gastronomic event—it's a journey through history, culture, and unforgettable flavors. Make sure to experience these unmissable events for a truly unique visit!