Every September, Historic Folsom transforms into an Italian marketplace during Ciao Folsom, a spirited celebration of the longstanding sister‑city partnership with Pieve del Grappa, Italy. In 2025, the event takes on September 13th over Sutter Street Plaza and the Railroad Turntable from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and entry is free to all.
Why Pieve del Grappa? Originally founded through the merger of Crespano del Grappa and Paderno del Grappa in January 2019, the town lies in Italy’s Veneto region—about an hour’s drive north of Venice.
Folsom’s sister‑city bond traces its roots to September 29, 2000, when Folsom and Crespano officially signed a “Declaration of Friendship” that has since carried through to Pieve del Grappa.
At Ciao Folsom, the Historic Folsom Farmers Market dons an Italian flair: expect booths featuring salumi, olives, pastries, espresso, and regional wines set up near the amphitheater. Performing artists bring folklore, contemporary music, and even opera-inspired sets, creating a festive cultural tapestry.
Families wander between Italian-themed vendors and market stalls, sampling food, admiring local crafts, and enjoying free live entertainment throughout the plaza.
This festival is more than a thematic twist—it honors 25 years of sister‑city friendship, offering a bridge between the Sacramento region and the hillsides of Veneto. It’s become an annual anchor event tying local residents to global heritage, raising awareness of the Murer House Foundation, Italian language classes, cooking workshops, and bocce tournaments inspired by Giuseppe “Joe” Murer’s legacy.
Backed by the City of Folsom, Historic District Association, and local Italian‑cultural groups, Ciao Folsom serves as a living, delicious, and musical showcase of Folsom’s ties to Pieve del Grappa—and a warm invitation to Italians-at-heart everywhere.
