Busseto De.Co. Potato Festival

A festival that smells of the Piacenza Apennines

Every summer, the small village of Busseto, a hamlet of the Municipality of Alta Val Tidone in the province of Piacenza (Emilia-Romagna), comes alive for the Festa della Patata De.Co., one of the most beloved festivals in the valley. The event takes place at the Busseto Sports Field and attracts residents, holidaymakers, and hikers every year who come up here, among the hills of Alta Val Tidone, to rediscover the flavors of a land that has remained true to its agricultural roots.

The De.Co. potato, the absolute star

The heart of the festival is the De.Co. potato, where the acronym stands for denominazione comunale (municipal denomination): a recognition that attests to the origin and quality of this product grown on the lands of Val Tidone. The mountain potato from this area, with its firm flesh and decisive flavor, has always been one of the key ingredients of local cuisine. During the festival, it is offered in many variations by the food stands, from traditional Piacenza dishes to simpler and more genuine side dishes.

Good food and great music

The festival's formula is the classic and proven one of village festivals: evenings of good food and great music. Alongside the catering service with potato-based dishes and local specialties, there is live music entertainment, dancing, and stands selling typical local products. It is a convivial occasion that brings entire families together, with offerings also designed for children.

A local event

The event is organized by the local associations, particularly the Circolo ANSPI Comunità BACC Val da Sur, with the support of the Municipality of Alta Val Tidone. It is part of a busy calendar of events that, throughout the year, promotes the typical products and traditions of Alta Val Tidone, from the Festa del Batarò to food and wine initiatives related to the flavors of the valley. Participating in the Festa della Patata means experiencing an authentic piece of Emilia-Romagna, far from the mass tourist circuits.

When it is held

The festival traditionally takes place in the heart of summer, between mid and late August, with evenings generally starting at 7:00 PM and, in larger editions, a Sunday with lunch service. Admission is free and participation is accessible to everyone.