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 May 31 and June 9, 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.