On October 3, 2026, St Francis Market returns to Orta’s Sacred Mount for its third edition. Following the positive response to the first two editions, the market will once again bring together local artisans, food producers and small businesses for a day celebrating traditional crafts, local produce, food and wine, and the character of the area.

The setting is Orta’s Sacred Mount, one of the most distinctive places on Lake Orta, where landscape and spirituality come together. Among the chapels and paths of the complex, visitors will find stalls selling handmade products, local specialities and other goods connected with the region. It is a chance to browse at a leisurely pace, meet the people behind the products and perhaps take home something special.

This year’s event has added significance, as it takes place in the year marking 800 years since the death of St Francis of Assisi. Orta’s Sacred Mount is dedicated to the life of the saint, and its chapels tell the story of some of the most important episodes in his life through a remarkable collection of artworks.

Food will also be an important part of the day. At lunchtime, a charity risotto lunch will be prepared by the chefs of the Allegra Brigata. The lunch was also part of previous editions: in 2025, around 250 people took part, giving the event an important charitable dimension alongside its celebration of local food and craftsmanship.

The market is organised by the Confederation of Crafts and Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises of Eastern Piedmont, together with the Municipality of Orta, the Sacred Mounts Management Authority, the Slow Food groups of the Novara Hills and Verbano Cusio, and the Allegra Brigata Association.

The stalls will be open from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., making the event a good opportunity to visit Orta’s Sacred Mount and spend a few hours exploring the site. You could then head down to Orta San Giulio and take a stroll through the narrow streets of the village, perhaps extending your visit with a walk along the lake.

At its heart, St Francis Market is based on a simple idea: bringing together people, artisans, producers and local businesses in one place, allowing their products and stories to offer a glimpse of the character and traditions of eastern Piedmont.