Tag: Parma Events

The Most Magnificent Dinner in Parma: Cena dei Mille In September.

In the heart of Italy’s Food Valley, where culinary traditions run as deep as the Po River, the city of Parma plays host to one of the most remarkable dining experiences in the world: the Cena dei Mille. This annual event, held in September, transforms Parma’s historic center into a grand open-air restaurant, offering a gastronomic journey that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Emilia-Romagna.

A Historic Setting

The Cena dei Mille, translating to “Dinner of the Thousand,” takes place along a 400-meter-long table set in the heart of Parma. The table stretches through the city’s iconic Piazza Garibaldi and down Strada della Repubblica, allowing diners to immerse themselves not only in exquisite food but also in the architectural beauty of one of Italy’s most charming cities.

A Feast for the Senses

The event is more than just a dinner; it is a celebration of Parma’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. The menu is crafted by some of Italy’s most esteemed chefs, including Michelin-starred talents like Davide Oldani and pastry maestro Iginio Massari. Each course is designed to highlight the region’s finest ingredients, from the famous Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano to lesser-known but equally revered products like Culatello di Zibello.

The evening begins with an aperitivo that features a selection of local delicacies presented by the Parma Quality Restaurants consortium. This is followed by a series of courses that showcase the creativity and expertise of the participating chefs. For instance, the 2024 menu includes a first course by Oldani, featuring “Sfoglia di pasta, ragù vegetale, pomodoro, anguria, e vino passito,” a dish that marries tradition with innovation​(

Zerosette,

VisitParma).

More Than Just a Meal

The Cena dei Mille is not only a culinary event but also a cultural celebration. Each year, the evening is enhanced by artistic performances, with contributions from institutions like the Teatro Regio – Verdi OFF, adding a layer of cultural richness to the experience​(

Zerosette).

Moreover, the event has a strong social component. A portion of the proceeds from the dinner is donated to the Emporio Solidale of Parma, an organization that supports local families in need. In 2024, for example, 20,000 euros were raised to aid this cause, making the dinner an opportunity to give back to the community​(

Emilia Romagna Tourism,

Zerosette).

A Coveted Experience

Tickets to the Cena dei Mille are highly sought after, with prices set at €130 per person. The demand is so high that tickets often sell out shortly after they become available on platforms like VivaTicket. For those looking for an even more immersive experience, special packages are offered, which include accommodations, guided tours of Parma, and additional gourmet experiences​(

Emilia Romagna Tourism,

PARMA Point).

Why You Should Attend

The Cena dei Mille is more than just a dinner; it is a celebration of everything that makes Parma and the Emilia-Romagna region so special. It’s an opportunity to taste the very best that Italy has to offer, prepared by some of the country’s top chefs, in a setting that is both historic and breathtaking. Whether you are a food lover, a cultural enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a unique experience, the Cena dei Mille is an event not to be missed.

As you sit at the table under the stars, surrounded by the buzz of conversation and the clinking of glasses, you’ll understand why this dinner is considered one of the most magnificent in the world. The Cena dei Mille is not just a meal; it’s a memory, a story, and a celebration of life itself.

Parma in September 2024: A Celebration of Culture, Music, and Gastronomy

Parma battistero

September is a vibrant month in Parma, a city that seamlessly blends its rich cultural heritage with world-renowned culinary traditions. This year, Parma is set to host an array of events that will delight music lovers, food enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike. From the illustrious Festival Verdi to the savory delights of the Parma Ham Festival and the gastronomic celebrations throughout the month, Parma promises an unforgettable experience. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect in Parma this September.

Festival Verdi: A Tribute to a Musical Genius

The Festival Verdi, which runs from September 21 to October 21, is the crown jewel of Parma’s cultural calendar. This festival, dedicated to the legendary composer Giuseppe Verdi, is a month-long celebration that draws opera enthusiasts from around the globe. Held across iconic venues such as the Teatro Regio di Parma, Teatro Verdi in Busseto, and other historic locations, the festival brings Verdi’s masterpieces to life in the city where he composed many of his great works.

This year’s festival will open with the lively Verdi Street Parade on September 21, filling the streets of Parma with music, dance, and vibrant performances that set the tone for the month ahead. The program includes some of Verdi’s most acclaimed operas, such as Macbeth (in its French version), Un Ballo in Maschera, and La Battaglia di Legnano, staged by world-class directors and performers. The festival also features special events like the Gala Verdiano and the Messa da Requiem, offering a deep dive into Verdi’s musical genius​ (Parma Welcome)​ (Emilia Romagna Turismo).

The festival not only honors Verdi’s legacy but also enhances the cultural fabric of Parma, a city deeply connected to the composer. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore Verdi’s life and work, visiting nearby Busseto, his birthplace, and other significant sites like the Casa Natale di Verdi in Roncole​ (Wine and Travel Italy).

Parma Ham Festival: A Celebration of Tradition

From September 6-8, the hills of Langhirano, just outside Parma, will host the Parma Ham Festival. This annual event is a homage to one of Italy’s most famous culinary exports—Parma Ham, or Prosciutto di Parma. The festival offers a unique opportunity to discover the centuries-old traditions behind this delicacy through “Finestre Aperte” (Open Doors), where local ham factories open to the public. Visitors can tour these facilities, learn about the meticulous process of curing and aging, and, of course, enjoy tastings of this world-renowned ham​ (Emilia Delizia).

The festival is not just about food; it’s a cultural event that includes artisanal markets, cooking demonstrations, and entertainment. It also offers a chance to explore the picturesque landscapes and historic sites of the Parma region, enriching the overall experience for attendees. The Parma Ham Festival is a must-visit for anyone passionate about Italian cuisine and heritage, providing an immersive experience into the local culture and food traditions​ (Emilia Delizia).

Gastronomic September: A Month-Long Culinary Extravaganza

September in Parma is synonymous with food, and Gastronomic September is the pinnacle of the city’s culinary celebrations. From September 6 to 30, the city hosts over fifty events that showcase its rich gastronomic heritage. These events take place throughout Parma, from the city center to its charming neighborhoods, highlighting the deep connection between the people of Parma and their food​ (Emilia Romagna Turismo).

The festival features a wide range of activities, including food tastings, cooking workshops, and exhibitions that celebrate Parma’s culinary excellence. Whether it’s learning how to make traditional dishes or sampling local specialties like Parmigiano Reggiano and Parma Ham, Gastronomic September offers something for everyone. The festival also includes music, cinema, and photography events that further enrich the cultural experience, making it a comprehensive celebration of Parma’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy​ (Emilia Romagna Turismo).

Truffle Festivals: A Taste of Autumn’s Luxury

While the major truffle festivals in Parma begin in October, the anticipation starts to build in September with events like the Fiera Nazionale del Tartufo Nero di Fragno in Calestano. This festival celebrates the prized black truffle of Fragno, known for its intense aroma and flavor. Although the main events are in October, September is when the preparations begin, and truffle lovers can start exploring the region’s truffle-rich areas​ (Emilia Delizia).

Conclusion

September in Parma is a month where culture, music, and gastronomy converge to create an unforgettable experience. The Festival Verdi pays tribute to one of Italy’s greatest composers, while the Parma Ham Festival and Gastronomic September celebrate the city’s culinary heritage. Together, these events offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich traditions and vibrant culture of Parma. Whether you are an opera enthusiast, a food lover, or simply looking to experience the best of Italian culture, Parma in September 2024 is the place to be.

Festival del Prosciutto di Parma: A Culinary Celebration of Italy’s Finest Ham

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The iconic Prosciutto di Parma, known for its delicate flavor, rich aroma, and centuries-old curing methods, is celebrated annually at the Festival del Prosciutto di Parma. This year, the festival marks its XXVI edition, which will take place from the 1st to the 3rd of September, 2023.

A Peek into the Art of Prosciutto Making

A highlight of the festival is the “FINESTRE APERTE” (Open Windows) initiative. This event, which attracts a vast audience of enthusiasts every year, offers visitors a unique behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous process behind the creation of Prosciutto di Parma. As part of this initiative, producers open the doors of their prosciutto-making facilities – known affectionately as the “cathedrals of Prosciutto di Parma” – allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rich aromas and discover the secrets of the ham’s production cycle.

Guided Tours and Bookings

To provide an intimate and informative experience, the festival organizes six guided tours daily. These tours, orchestrated by the participating companies, are limited to groups of a maximum of 15 people. Morning tours are scheduled at 10:00, 11:00, and 12:00, while afternoon tours are available at 15:00, 16:00, and 17:00.

If you’re keen on joining the FINESTRE APERTE experience, remember to book your spot in advance through the official website https://www.langhiranovalley.it/finestreaperte/. The initiative comes with a modest fee of €2 for adults, while youngsters under 18 can join for free. However, participants are required to arrange their transportation to the facilities.

Participating Prosciutto Facilities

On the 2nd of September, the following establishments in Langhirano will be welcoming visitors:

  • Corradi Guerrino spa
  • Fratelli Galloni Spa
  • Leporati Prosciutti
  • S. Ilario Prosciutti s.r.l. (located in Lesignano De’ Bagni)
  • Tanara Giancarlo s.p.a.
  • ZUARINA spa

The festival also lists other dates in September for open visits, hinting at an extended celebration and multiple opportunities to explore different prosciutto-making establishments.

How to Reach the Festival

While specific directions and details on how to get to the festival are not provided in the shared information, potential visitors can select dates and commune data or consult an interactive map available on the festival’s website to guide their journey.

Contact and Further Details

For more information or queries about the festival, one can reach out to the Consorzio del Prosciutto di Parma at Largo Calamandrei 1/A, 43121 Parma, Italy. Their contact number is 0521 246 211, and email inquiries can be directed to [email protected].

What to Expect from the Visit

Upon entering the prosciutto facilities, visitors are instantly greeted by the unmistakable and enticing aroma of aging ham, a testament to the time-honored curing process that defines Prosciutto di Parma. The tour guides, often seasoned experts, will walk you through the various stages of production – from the initial salting to the final aging. As you meander through the corridors lined with rows of hanging hams, you’ll gain insights into the delicate balance of time, temperature, and air circulation that gives Prosciutto di Parma its unique flavor. Along the way, there will be opportunities to ask questions, and often, taste samples of this exquisite product at various stages of its maturity. Expect an immersive experience that tantalizes not just your taste buds, but all your senses.

How Prosciutto di Parma is Made

Prosciutto di Parma is a result of a meticulous process that combines age-old traditions with strict regulations to ensure the highest quality product. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how this delectable ham is made:

  1. Selection of Pork: Only specific breeds of pigs, primarily Large White, Landrace, and Duroc, are used. The pigs are raised in eleven regions of Italy and are primarily fed a diet of grains and the whey from Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese production, which imparts a unique flavor to the meat.
  2. Salting: After slaughter and initial preparation, the hams are salted. This is a critical step in the curing process. The salt draws out moisture and helps to preserve the ham. The amount of salt used and the duration of salting are carefully controlled to ensure a perfect balance of flavor and preservation.
  3. Resting: Post salting, the hams are stored in a cool environment and left to rest for about a month. This allows the salt to penetrate deeply into the meat.
  4. Washing and Drying: After resting, the hams are washed with warm water and brushed to remove any remaining salt. They are then dried in a well-ventilated area.
  5. Aging: The hams are transferred to aging rooms where they undergo a natural drying process. This is where the magic happens. Exposed to the gentle breezes of the Parma region, the hams slowly develop their distinct taste and aroma. This aging process can last for over 18 months.
  6. Greasing: To prevent the exterior of the ham from drying out too quickly, a mixture of lard and salt, sometimes with added rice flour, is applied to the exposed surface of the meat.
  7. Inspection: Only the best hams earn the prestigious ‘Prosciutto di Parma’ designation. After the aging process, each ham is carefully inspected by a member of the Consorzio del Prosciutto di Parma. They use a horse bone needle to check the aroma at various points. If it passes the test, it is fire-branded with the iconic Ducal crown, a guarantee of its authenticity and quality.
  8. Final Preparation: Once approved, the prosciutto is trimmed and cleaned, giving it its final, recognizable shape. It can then be packaged whole or sliced and is ready to be savored.

The entire process, from selection of the pork to the final product, reflects a commitment to quality, tradition, and the rich heritage of the Parma region. When you indulge in a slice of Prosciutto di Parma, you’re tasting not just the flavor of the ham but the legacy of centuries of Italian culinary artistry.

In Conclusion

The Festival del Prosciutto di Parma is more than just a celebration of a culinary delight; it’s a homage to a tradition that has been upheld for centuries. Whether you’re a gourmet, a curious traveler, or someone who simply appreciates the fine things in life, this festival promises a flavorful and enriching experience. Join the celebration and savor the unparalleled taste and tradition of Prosciutto di Parma.