As autumn paints central Italy in hues of gold and chestnut, the weekend of October 18 and 19, 2025, promises a vibrant tapestry of festivities across the Tuscia region and the Ligurian town of Varazze. From bustling antique markets and chestnut fairs to civil protection education and immersive cultural events, locals and visitors alike are set to experience a celebration of tradition, community, and learning.
In Varazze, a picturesque town perched on the Ligurian coast, Piazza Dante will transform into a hub of community spirit on Sunday, October 19. The day is dedicated to promoting good civil protection practices, with the aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine—prepared by the indefatigable Volunteers—wafting through the air. According to PonenetVarazzino.com, the event kicks off at 10:00 AM and runs until evening, offering a smorgasbord of activities designed for all ages. Children and adults can engage in a variety of games that not only entertain but also educate about weather events and how to respond in case of civil protection alerts.
But it’s not just about fun and food. The Volunteers of Protezione Civile Varazze OdV have curated an exhibition of drawings crafted by local elementary and middle school students. These artworks, created as part of a broader educational campaign, reflect lessons learned about civil protection and the importance of community preparedness. The organizers hope that by making learning interactive and enjoyable, the values of readiness and solidarity will take root in the next generation. "Participate in large numbers," the Volunteers urge, underscoring their commitment to fostering a safer, more informed community.
Meanwhile, over in the heart of Tuscia—a region renowned for its rolling hills and historic villages—the chestnut reigns supreme this weekend. As reported by ViterboToday, the third weekend of October is traditionally a time when the area bursts into life with a plethora of chestnut festivals and fairs. In towns such as Vallerano, Soriano nel Cimino, and San Martino al Cimino, the humble chestnut takes center stage, celebrated with typical dishes, roasted chestnuts (the much-loved caldarroste), and entertainment for all ages.
Vallerano’s chestnut festival continues to draw crowds with its rich program: guided tours that reveal the town’s storied past, an artisan market brimming with local crafts, a farmers’ breakfast to start the day right, and, of course, the ever-popular roasted chestnuts. Soriano nel Cimino hosts the final events of its own chestnut celebration, featuring traditional games that bring residents together in friendly competition. In San Martino al Cimino, the festivities are twofold, with the sagra (festival) honoring not only chestnuts but also the prized porcini mushroom. Here, visitors can enjoy a weekend of flavors, tradition, and children’s games, and even join a circular trekking excursion capped off with lunch at the festival.
For those with a sweet tooth, Viterbo and Caprarola are the places to be. CioccoTuscia in Viterbo and CioccoFest in Caprarola both return this weekend, turning the towns into chocolate lovers’ paradises. But these events are more than just confectionery showcases; they feature live music, street performers, and a jubilant atmosphere that captures the essence of Italian festivity.
The cultural calendar is equally packed. The traditional Mercatino dell'antico, an antique market beloved by collectors and the simply curious, makes its return to Via Ascensi and Piazza dei Caduti in Viterbo on Sunday, October 19. Here, visitors can browse through a trove of vintage treasures, from rare collectibles to charming trinkets, all while soaking in the town’s historic ambiance.
Art and mystery intertwine at the Church of Santa Maria della Salute in Viterbo, where from October 17 to 19, the event "Sulle tracce del mistero" (On the Trail of Mystery) delves into the frontiers of research and the unknown. Dance enthusiasts are in for a treat as well, with the "Forma et chaos" project lighting up the stage at Teatro San Leonardo on Saturday, October 18. On the same evening in Tuscania, the dance show "Blu, a cento passi dal mare" offers a performance that promises to be as evocative as the town’s storied landscape.
Music echoes throughout the region this weekend. The JazzUp festival launches in Viterbo, blending jazz with literature in an innovative series of concerts at Teatro San Leonardo and Teatro dell'Unione. OperaExtravaganza opens its new musical season in Vetralla, while the Beethoven festival brings the Quartetto di Fiesole to the Church of San Francesco in Sutri for a Sunday concert. Not to be outdone, Proceno inaugurates its first music festival with classical concerts in the stunning setting of Palazzo Sforza.
Theater lovers can catch Edy Angelillo and Michele La Ginestra at Teatro Bianconi in Carbognano, where two shows are scheduled over the weekend. For families, the Kingdom of Santa Claus experience in Vetralla offers a magical escape, complete with food, immersive paths, and performances that delight both young and old. Bolsena hosts an art exhibition titled "La memoria dell'acqua," reflecting on the region’s deep ties to its lakes and waterways. Meanwhile, the Monastery of Santa Rosa in Viterbo continues its "Omaggio a Rosa" exhibition, honoring the city’s patron saint with a display of documents, images, and liturgical objects.
Each of these events, whether rooted in centuries-old tradition or contemporary creativity, speaks to the enduring vitality of Italy’s local communities. They offer a window into how heritage and innovation can go hand in hand—how a roasted chestnut shared in a bustling piazza, or a child’s drawing about civil protection, can connect past and present in meaningful ways.
As the weekend approaches, both Varazze and the Tuscia region invite everyone to join in these celebrations. Whether you’re savoring the taste of autumn, learning about civil protection, or losing yourself in art and music, there’s a sense of belonging and discovery waiting on every corner.