Weekend in Varese and the Varesotto: key events to attend (8-10 May

Weekend in Varese and the Varesotto (8-10 May 2026)

A packed weekend across the province: from Lake Maggiore to town squares, offering local food, music and outdoor activities. Below is a curated list of main events with practical information to plan your visit.

Main events

• Festival della Meraviglia — Laveno Mombello and Luino, 8-10 May (some activities in Luino continue until 24 May): theatre performances, talks and cultural projects on Lake Maggiore.
• Festa Oasi Palude Brabbia (LIPU) — 10 May: reserve opening with kids' workshops, botany activities and shows focused on biodiversity.
• Sagra della Puglia — Cassano Magnago, Area Feste del Maggiolone Social Park, 8-10 May: Puglian specialties such as bombette, orecchiette and puccia.
• Vinyl market — Materia Spazio Libero, 10 May, 10:00-19:00: sellers of vinyl records, CDs and music items organized by Records Family Groove.
• Musica a San Cassiano — Velate (Varese), early music series from 9 May to 6 June: first concert on Saturday 9 May at the small church of San Cassiano.
• Nebbiolo tasting (ONAV) — Grand Hotel Palace, Via Manara 11, Varese, 10 May 2026, 10:30-17:30: tastings dedicated to the Nebbiolo grape.

Other weekend highlights

• Cantine in Festa — Gorla Maggiore, 9-10 May: wine tastings and food offers.
• Biandronno – A passo lento 2… — 10 May: walk in the Palude Brabbia, meeting at 15:30 at Cascina Camilla.
• Games and Tonic — Besozzo, 9 May from 19:30: an evening of games and entertainment at the former Sonnino factory.
• Patron Saint celebration — Arsago Seprio: Saturday evening music and food; Sunday historical parade and openings of local monuments.
• Pizzoccheri and music — Arcisate, 9 May: charity evening with pizzoccheri and a concert by Decanter.
• Bentornati Rondoni — Cislago, 8 May: event in the Town Hall with awards and school activities.
• Nova Coop solidarity day — 9 May: goods collection at stores in Tradate, Luino and Castano Primo.
• Pensiero Meticcio — Gallarate, 10 May 17:00-20:00: initiatives supporting animals in the municipal shelter.
• Monastery of Santa Maria Assunta — Cairate, from 8 May: weekend of guided visits, presentations and local heritage activities.

Practical information and tips

• Schedules and tickets: check official event pages: some activities require reservations or have limited capacity.
• Transport and parking: arrive early for busy food festivals and markets; verify public transport links to Lake Maggiore.
• Family-friendly: many events include children's workshops and outdoor trails: bring suitable clothing, water and sun protection.
• Safety: follow organisers' instructions and local rules, especially in protected natural areas.

Enjoy the weekend of flavors, music and nature across the Varesotto!