Borgo di Castello Cherry Festival (Ci-lie-già in Arte)

A festival dedicated to the Gragnano cherry

The Borgo di Castello Cherry Festival, also known as Ci-lie-già in Arte, is one of the most anticipated events of early summer in Gragnano, in the province of Naples. Every year, on the first weekend of June, the historic Borgo di Castello transforms into a trail of flavors, music, and art to celebrate the cherry, a fruit that symbolizes the agricultural and cultural identity of the area.

The Borgo di Castello, the heart of the event

Perched on the hills overlooking the city, the Borgo di Castello is one of Gragnano's most evocative spots: stone alleys, panoramic views, and the Church of Santa Maria dell'Assunta provide the perfect backdrop for two nights of celebration. The ribbon-cutting ceremony kicks off the event, and the festivities continue through the village streets, featuring food stalls, exhibitions, and live performances.

Taste, art, and tradition

The undisputed star is the local cherry, served fresh as well as in jams, spirits, and desserts. The festival menu includes first courses, main courses, and desserts featuring cherries, paired with Gragnano wine and local delicacies, including the famous panuozzo from the Gragnano Panuozzo Association. The event also showcases local artists, such as the tribute to Luigi Gentile's pastels, and installations by the Noveartè Association that add an artistic dimension to the experience.

Music, dance, and folk culture

The evenings are filled with dance performances, gypsy dances, and concerts, alongside the traditional tammorre music of the Campania region. It is a rich calendar of events that weaves together entertainment and the rediscovery of rural roots, highlighting the bond between the community and its land.

An inclusive event for families

The Cherry Festival stands out for its commitment to inclusion: alongside the main attractions, there are free workshops for children and people with disabilities, making the event accessible to everyone. Organized by the Gragnano Pro Loco with the support of the Municipality of Gragnano and the Metropolitan City of Naples, the festival is designed to be enjoyed by the whole family.

How to participate

Entry to the village is free, with food and drinks available for purchase at the stalls. To facilitate access, a free shuttle service runs during the evenings, connecting Piazza San Leone to the Antico Borgo di Castello. It is a convenient and sustainable way to reach the heart of the festival and experience Gragnano and its cherry tradition.