Cipolla Fest in Alife from September 3rd to 6th, 2026: program, music, and visits to archaeological sites

From Thursday 3 to Sunday 6 September 2026, the village of Alife , in the province of Caserta, celebrates its iconic product with the first edition of the Cipolla Fest : four days of food stands, live music, workshops and visits to discover the city's archaeological treasures, from the slopes of the Matese to the heart of the historic centre.

The event was created to showcase the Alifana Onion , a specialty of the Caserta area that has been closely linked to the city's identity for centuries. This product tells the story of the agricultural history of the Upper Caserta area and is celebrated here with traditional dishes, tastings, and numerous events for adults and children. It's an opportunity to discover Alife, an ancient Roman city with a remarkable archaeological heritage, through flavor, music, and tradition.

Cipolla Fest 2026 in Alife: the festival program

Music will take center stage every evening in four different areas of the historic center: Porta Napoli – Largo Vitelli , Piazza Santa Caterina , Piazza Termini , and the Palco Grande . Announced artists include Miky Borgo Sax, Kalash Honey, Unolugeeduo, Gren Dey, Vienteterra, Francesco Iadonisi with Duo Note, Pierfrancesca Di Giovanni and Nico De Lellis, Nicola Di Mezza and Maria Luigi Lucci, Caylion, Vintage School, Acoustic Duo, Demian, and Diadema, as well as DJ sets and emerging artists.

The program also includes ceramics workshops for children, teens, and adults, activities related to the nzerta tradition , and a date with Miss Cipolla Alifana . The final day, Sunday, September 6th, will be dedicated to folk games , including sack jumping, tug-of-war, and the traditional raw onion competition.

Archaeological sites and guided tours

During the Cipolla Fest, from September 3rd to 6th, the Roman Mausoleum , the Roman Amphitheater , and the Roman Cryptoporticus will be open free of charge until midnight. The Norman Crypt and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta will be open to visitors from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM.

The National Archaeological Museum of Ancient Allifae will be open as follows: September 3rd from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, September 4th and 5th from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, and September 6th from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. On Sunday, September 6th, the first Sunday of the month, admission to the museum will be free.

Free guided tours are also available, organized by the Alife Municipal Tourist Office, every day from 17 to 18 pm and from 18 to 19 pm. Reservations are required by email at turismo@comune.alife.ce.it.

How to reach Alife

Alife is located in the Upper Caserta area, at the foot of the Matese mountains, along the Volturno Valley. It can be easily reached by car via the A1 motorway to the Caianello exit and continuing on the SS 158, or from the SS 85 Venafrana. The historic center, with its squares and Roman monuments, is easily explored on foot.

FAQ

When is the Cipolla Fest held in Alife?

The event is scheduled from Thursday 3 to Sunday 6 September 2026, in the historic centre of Alife, in the province of Caserta.

How much does admission to the Cipolla Fest cost?

Admission to the festival is free; food stands and tastings are subject to a fee. Access to the archaeological sites is free during the event.

How do I book guided tours?

Free guided tours organized by the Alife Tourist Office (daily from 17 to 19 pm) require reservations by email at turismo@comune.alife.ce.it.

Are there any events for children?

Yes: there are ceramics workshops for children, teenagers, and adults, in addition to popular Sunday games, including sack jumping and tug-of-war.