In the Piacenza plain, close to the great river Po, there is a long tradition of cherry production. The land where Giuseppe Verdi chose to lead a rural and secluded life is located in the municipality that is traditionally known for the production of these fruits: Villanova sull'Arda.
At the beginning of spring, the cherry trees are celebrated for their blossoming, offering a landscape softened by the whiteness and delicacy of the blossoms; with the month of June, the fruit arrives, offering new cause for celebration.
Between June 9 and 16, 2024 Villanova sull'arda (PC) celebrates the Festa delle Ciliegie (Cherry Festival).
The festival combines the mouth-watering aspect of fruit tasting with walks through the cherry orchards, tourist trains, bike rides, ballroom dancing and food stands.