Musical performances, parades, and reenactments will liven up the 2026 Celtic New Year!
In the Romagna of yesteryear, the transition from October to November was considered New Year’s Day.
The origin of this calendar’s starting date was Celtic (the same as that of American Halloween). It was believed that the dead returned to earth to “put everything back in order” after the end of the agricultural cycle, thereby preparing for the next one.
The Riolo Night, the first of its kind in Italy and scheduled for October 31, is increasingly rediscovering the meaning of its origins.
Throughout the town, visitors will find themselves in a world somewhat removed from the present, with reenactments of ancient Celtic villages and their rituals.
The main theme is always the eternal struggle between good and evil, featuring battles between fantastical creatures and parades through the town’s streets.
At the food stands, you can sample traditional dishes and fine local wine, including mulled wine.
There will also be various markets featuring farm products and other items strictly related to the Celtic theme.
The music will be provided by powerful drum corps, which will accompany the numerous parades of performance groups.
At approximately midnight on October 31, the “final battle” takes place. Evil faces off against the forces of good, culminating in the triumphant and spectacular burning of the monster in the Rocca’s moat.
And to cap off the wonderful evening, there was a spectacular fireworks display from inside the castle.
For more information
Pro Loco Riolo Terme
www.rioloterme-proloco.it
[email protected]
