Sagra · September 11, 2026 – September 13, 2026 · Fermignano (PU)
Step back in time in Fermignano (PU) for the 39th edition of the Gran Premio del Biciclo Ottocentesco! This unique festival brings the historic town center to life with races, workshops, and delicious food and wine. The idea for this one-of-a-kind event, unparalleled anywhere else in the world, was born in 1966 by the local Pro loco of Fermignano. The distinctive 'bicicli' (penny-farthings) were crafted by a local master blacksmith, featuring a towering 120-centimeter front wheel, a 40-centimeter rear wheel, handlebars 154 centimeters off the ground, and pedals fixed directly to the front wheel. The Gran Premio del Biciclo Ottocentesco race winds through the streets of Fermignano, with 21 competitors representing the town's seven districts: Ca’ l’Agostina, Calpino, La Pieve, La Torre, San Lazzaro, San Silvestro, and Santa Barbara. Each district fields three riders. The competition includes two relay elimination heats, followed by a single final race between the top two teams from each heat to claim the coveted trophy. Another highlight is the spectacular Historical Parade, featuring around 100 participants. This includes the 19th-century Biciclo Concert, historical re-enactors, and the riders from the seven districts with their race judges and support teams. Guest historical groups from neighboring towns also join the procession. The Gran Premio del Biciclo Ottocentesco Historical Group is renowned for its originality and showmanship, participating in numerous historical and carnival events both in Italy and abroad. It holds the unique distinction of being the only historical group to have performed at the world's most famous carnival, the Rio de Janeiro Carnival, specifically during its grand finale, the 'Notte dei Campioni' (Night of Champions).
At the 'Taverna del Biciclo,' you can savor a delightful array of traditional Italian dishes. Start with classic fried potatoes or a refreshing side of tomatoes and cucumbers. For a taste of local specialties, try 'cresce sfogliate' – a type of flaky flatbread – served with delicious fillings like local cheese, prosciutto, sausage, or cooked vegetables. Hearty first courses include gnocchi with duck ragu, creamy polenta alla carbonara, delicate ravioli with butter and sage, or sedanini pasta with rich meat sauce. For your main course, choose from succulent roasted beef loin, tender baked chicken thighs, a mixed grilled pork platter featuring capocollo, sausages, and ribs, or savory baked sausage.