Pieve Cesato Countryside Festival

The festival of peasant civilization in Pieve Cesato

The Countryside Festival is one of the most deeply rooted events in the Municipality of Faenza, in the Province of Ravenna (Emilia-Romagna). It takes place in the small hamlet of Pieve Cesato, gathered around its ancient parish church, and for over sixty years has attracted thousands of visitors between late April and early May. Born to celebrate the life and work of the fields, the festival retains its original spirit: that of a community that comes together around its rural roots, re-enacting the games, trades, flavors, and music of the past.

Farmyard games and the donkey race

The symbolic heart of the festival is the famous donkey race, traditionally held on the afternoon of May 1st, gathering the public along the route between rows of spectators. Alongside it, the farmyard games of the past are revived, such as the barandell and the zachègn, ancient peasant pastimes that return as protagonists every year with their tournament. There is also a running race, a vintage car and motorcycle gathering, and street artists animating the village streets.

Craftsmanship, ceramics, and traditions

The festival is also a showcase for Faenza's artisan tradition: ceramics workshops, Faenza's worldwide identity symbol, and a market exhibition of embroidery and handmade crafts are held. The visit to the medieval parish church, exhibitions, and craft markets complete a journey that enhances the material culture of Romagna. For children, play areas with inflatables, entertainment, face painting, workshops, and puppet shows are set up.

The great Romagna cuisine

The food stand, managed by numerous community volunteers, is one of the reasons for the festival's success. On the table are Strozzapreti della Pieve — handmade pasta recognizable by its characteristic knot — along with cappelletti, tortelloni, and garganelli rolled with a pin. Among the main courses, grilled meats (mutton, chops, chicken, sausages), fried lamb, piadina, and fried pizza stand out, while traditional desserts like latte brulè conclude the meal.

Music, dancing, and village atmosphere

Every evening the festival offers live music, orchestras, and traditional dances under the stars, with the bonfire and cheerfulness that have always accompanied Romagna's country festivals. Admission is free and by donation, with ample parking available: a popular, family-friendly, and deeply identity-driven event, capable of keeping the memory of peasant civilization alive in the heart of the Faenza plain.