Vicenza’s Cherry Festival: Italy’s First Protected Cherry

A giant chessboard, a cherry market, local growers and an annual spring celebration of Ciliegia di Marostica IGP.

The Festa della Ciliegia di Marostica IGP is an annual spring food festival in the province of Vicenza, Italy, celebrating the country's first cherry to receive Protected Geographical Indication status in 2001. Its central event takes place in Marostica's Piazza Castello, famous for its giant chessboard, with growers' stalls, tastings and awards for the finest cherries of the harvest. [1][2]

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Know before you go

ABOUT

Vicenza has a cherry festival with a unique setting: in Marostica, the annual cherry market occupies Piazza Castello, the square famous for its enormous chessboard and living chess tradition.

On the principal market day, growers present their Ciliegia di Marostica IGP harvest, visitors can buy directly from producers, and the best cherries are recognised in a local competition.

In 2026, the festival also included countryside walks, activities for children and an excursion through the cherry growing hills. [2] The celebration extends across northern Vicenza, with related events in Pianezze and Colceresa. The protected cherry is cultivated in eight municipalities of the province, and May and June are the months to taste the local harvest. [1]

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Main location: Piazza Castello, Marostica, province of Vicenza, Italy

Experience: Cherry growers' market, seasonal tastings, local food and cultural activities.

Season: May to June.

2026 festival: Pianezze, 23–24 May; Marostica, 30 May–2 June; Colceresa, 5–7 June.

Main market day in 2026: Sunday 31 May, Piazza Castello.

2027 dates: To be announced.

Admission: The main festival was free in 2026. Some walks or activities may require separate booking.

Information: Associazione Pro Marostica

Phone: +39 0424 72127

Email: info@marosticascacchi.it

Sources

[1] Consorzio di Tutela della Ciliegia di Marostica IGP · Territorio. Festival locations, annual season and protected production area.
[2] Visit Marostica, Ufficio Turismo · Festa delle Ciliegie. Official 2026 programme, market, activities, dates and locations.
[3] Comune di Marostica · 82ª Festa della Ciliegia IGP. Municipal confirmation of the 2026 edition, admission and organising contacts.