Basil and 'Du Cen' Festival of Vallecrosia

The Scent of Ligurian Summer

In Vallecrosia, a small town in the province of Imperia overlooking the sea of western Liguria, summer has the unmistakable scent of basil. The Basil and 'Du Cen' Festival celebrates the aromatic herb that symbolizes Liguria and the dishes that make it their main ingredient, starting with pesto, an authentic regional gastronomic pride.

What to Eat

For two evenings, the historic center transforms into a large open-air kitchen. At the stands, you'll find specialties of the peasant and maritime tradition of the Ponente: stuffed zucchini flowers, zucchini, peppers, eggplants, and cabbage, as well as basil recipes that give the festival its name. The event is accompanied by the Festival of Stuffing, another classic of Ligurian cuisine, with its baked stuffed vegetables.

Atmosphere and Music

The festival isn't just about food: a live orchestra enlivens the evenings, making young and old dance in the streets of the village. It's an opportunity to experience Vallecrosia in its most popular dimension, far from crowded beaches, immersed in the hospitality of a town that preserves the spirit of the Ponente's summer festivals intact.

Vallecrosia and Western Liguria

A few kilometers from the French border and Ventimiglia, Vallecrosia combines sea and hills: the upper part of the town houses the medieval village, while the seaside area hosts the promenade and beaches. A festival like this is the best way to get to know the territory through its flavors, in an area where the cultivation of basil and flowers has been part of the local economy and identity for generations.