GallinGiardino

GallinGiardino, the Usella festival in the heart of the Bisenzio Valley

Every June 2nd, the small village of Usella, a hamlet of the Municipality of Cantagallo in the Province of Prato, transforms into a large open-air garden. GallinGiardino is a local festival that has carved out a unique identity: a day centered on nature, animals, craftsmanship, and the community spirit of the Bisenzio Valley, that lush green Tuscan valley that rises from the Prato hills toward the Apennines.

The event takes place in the green spaces of via Coppi e Bartali, along the public gardens and the areas adjacent to the sports field, and is organized by the Aiuti dalla Vallata association with the patronage and support of the Municipality of Cantagallo. It is an event designed for families and those looking for a day outdoors that is different from the usual, far from the chaos of large-scale events.

Animals, local crafts, and tradition

The common thread of the festival is farm animals, present throughout the day, alongside an exhibition of animals and vintage agricultural machinery that tells the story of the ancient bond between this valley and working the land. The commercial heart of the event is the fierucola, a traditional market hosting local producers, hobbyists, artisans, and the many local volunteer associations: an opportunity to discover typical products, handmade items, and the social realities of the valley.

Sports, workshops, and activities for everyone

The program is rich and designed for all ages. There is no shortage of sports activities, including the customary cycle-walk to the evocative Rocca di Cerbaia, an ancient medieval fortress that dominates the valley. For the little ones, there are creative workshops, games, and activities such as creative recycling and kite making. Among the most popular attractions are demonstrations with birds of prey from various continents, archery exhibitions, and the "saddle baptism" to get closer to the world of horses.

Music, street food, and a party until nightfall

From the afternoon, the party heats up with live music and continues into the evening with a DJ set, while street food accompanies visitors from morning until late at night. GallinGiardino is not just entertainment: the underlying spirit is one of solidarity, involving the associations and volunteers of the Bisenzio Valley. An authentic festival, deeply rooted in the Tuscan territory, where nature, farming tradition, and the desire to be together meet in a single day of celebration.