Castellar Scarecrow Festival 2026: The Village Becomes an Open-Air Museum of Art and Sustainability

The village of Castellar is preparing to host a new edition of the traditional Scarecrow Festival, taking place from May 3 to 10, 2026. Now in its 32nd edition, the event will once again transform streets, squares, and rural corners into a vibrant open-air museum dedicated to folk art, creativity, and environmental sustainability.

The festival has become one of the most anticipated spring events in the region, attracting visitors from across northern Italy thanks to its unique atmosphere that blends rural tradition, community participation, and artistic expression.

A celebration of creativity, inclusion, and recycling

The Scarecrow Festival is far more than an exhibition: it is a collective project involving citizens, schools, associations, families, and community groups in the creation of hundreds of artistic installations.

Each scarecrow is made using recycled materials, resulting in original and often surprising works that tell different stories while reflecting the strong connection between territory and imagination.

The event stands out for its strong social and inclusive value: people of all ages participate, including children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, in a shared creative process that promotes teamwork and collective expression.

Sustainability and green mobility at the heart of the event

A key focus of the 2026 edition is environmental sustainability. Organizers encourage visitors to reach Castellar using eco-friendly transport such as buses or bicycles, supported by the nearby cycling path connecting the village to surrounding areas.

During the two Sundays of the event, a free shuttle service will operate, and electric bike rentals will also be available for easier access to the installations.

This approach reinforces the festival’s message: culture, tourism, and sustainability can coexist harmoniously.

A rich program of performances, workshops, and live music

The 2026 edition offers a packed schedule of activities designed for all ages, spread throughout the week.

Sunday, May 3

The opening day features street magic, puppet theatre, creative workshops, and itinerant music performances by artists including Andrea Marasso, Mago Ticket, CIRCO PACCO, and Son de la Rue.

Saturday, May 9

A special day for children with the Puppet Circus by Il Cerchio Tondo APS, followed by folk and Occitan music by the Jonglars group.

Sunday, May 10

The grand finale includes theatre performances, craft workshops, live music, and artistic shows such as “La Regina di Paglia” by Compagnia ArteMakia and the DUEA musical project by the Cesano sisters.

Side activities and local heritage experiences

Alongside the main program, guided visits to the Chapel of San Ponzio will be offered in collaboration with FAI Giovani of Saluzzo, as well as wine tastings at La Cantina del Pelaverga featuring local wines.

These activities highlight the cultural and gastronomic heritage of the region, offering visitors a complete experience combining art, history, and tradition.

A festival that celebrates community and sustainable living

The Castellar Scarecrow Festival is much more than a folkloric event: it is a collective experience that unites creativity, environmental awareness, and community spirit.

Each scarecrow tells a story, and every participant contributes to a shared project that promotes recycling and ecological responsibility.

Between blooming fields, music, workshops, and artistic installations, Castellar becomes a unique destination for visitors seeking an authentic experience where nature and creativity meet.

From May 3 to 10, 2026, this charming village in Piedmont will once again become a reference point for cultural tourism rooted in participation, sustainability, and imagination.