In the heart of the Oltrepò Pavese region of northern Italy, the Municipality of Bagnaria, in collaboration with the local Pro Loco (a volunteer-run cultural association), organizes the annual Sagra della Ciliegia—the Cherry Festival.
This beloved event occurs in the town center, specifically in Piazza Aldo Moro, where visitors can explore local food stands offering traditional products. Local farmers proudly display and sell their homegrown cherries inside the covered fruit and vegetable market.

The festival was initially inspired by the vision of the late Don Dario Sforzini, and over the years, it has become a cornerstone of the town’s cultural and agricultural calendar. Bagnaria is a member of the National Association of Cherry Towns (Associazione Nazionale Città delle Ciliegie) and has a long-standing tradition of cherry cultivation (cerasicoltura) that dates back centuries. This deep-rooted connection has made the town’s name well-known beyond provincial borders. Cherry Varieties and the Covered Market

The most common varieties grown in the area include:  Durone Ferrovia Canada  Durone tradizionale (Traditional Durone)  Durone di Spagna  Durone di Moglie  Durone di Vignola  Bigarreau  Napoleon

These can all be found at the Covered Municipal Market, inaugurated on October 24, 1982, by Ernesto Vercesi, then Regional Agriculture Councillor. The market was established to support direct sales from local farmers to consumers, following the Italian model of Km 0—zero- kilometer, which means local and sustainable agriculture.

Local Flavors and Festive Atmosphere Alongside the cherry market and traditional product stalls, the Pro Loco of Bagnaria serves a special lunch menu featuring dishes from local culinary traditions, many of which highlight the town’s prized fruit. Oltrepò Pavese wines and an afternoon of live music and entertainment accompany the meal. More Than a Festival – A Showcase of the Region With this event, the Municipality of Bagnaria continues its mission to promote and enhance the region’s agricultural excellence—not only cherries but also rice and wine, representing the key rural zones of the Province of Pavia:  Valle Staffora (cherries)  Oltrepò Pavese (wine)  Lomellina/Pavese (rice) The festival also highlights the town’s rich historical and natural heritage, including the Medieval Village of Bagnaria and the surrounding landscape of Monte Vallassa di Guardamonte—a treasure trove of scenic trails and biodiversity.

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