Food FestivalJune
Festa della Ciliegia - Santo Stefano del Sole
location_onSanto Stefano del Sole, Irpinia
calendar_today
Date
June 27, 2026
map
payments
Admission
Free
family_restroom
Audience
Everyone
wb_sunny
Weather
Check weather
The Festa della Ciliegia in Santo Stefano del Sole is an unmissable event for lovers of authentic Campania flavors. Now in its third decade, this celebration honors the renowned imperial cherries of the Avellino region, a fruit that has represented agricultural excellence in this area for centuries. Every June, the charming Piazza Oscar Brini transforms into a stage of taste and tradition, where local artisans and agricultural producers showcase their finest creations. During the three-day festival, visitors can immerse themselves in a complete sensory experience: from guided tastings of freshly picked cherries to live musical performances and exhibitions by master craftspeople. The festival is more than just a commercial opportunity to promote local products—it's a moment of community gathering that celebrates the agricultural roots of this corner of Irpinia, where imperial cherry cultivation has been passed down through generations of farmers.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Festa della Ciliegia take place?expand_more
The Festa della Ciliegia is generally held in late June, running for three days (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). The exact dates vary each year based on the natural ripening schedule of the local imperial cherries. In 2026, it is scheduled for June 27-29. For future editions, it is recommended to contact the local Tourism Office in June for exact dates.
Where is the event held and how can I get there?expand_more
The festival takes place in Piazza Oscar Brini in Santo Stefano del Sole, a municipality in the province of Avellino, Campania. The event is easily accessible by car via the A16 Naples-Bari motorway, exit Avellino West. Parking is available in areas near the square with reduced rates during the festival. Those arriving by public transport can use Trenitalia rail service; Avellino station is approximately 20 km away.
What cherry-based products can I find and taste?expand_more
During the festival, you can sample a wide variety of gastronomic specialties made with the prized local imperial cherries: traditional sweets (cherry amaretti, filled biscuits), artisanal ice cream and granitas, fresh smoothies, jams and preserves, homemade liqueurs such as local maraschino, syrups, preserved cherries, filled cheese pastries, gourmet chocolates, and even themed craft beers. Many producers offer complimentary tastings of their products.
What are the opening hours and admission costs?expand_more
The festival is completely free and open to the public. Hours are: Friday 6:00 PM–11:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM–11:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM–10:00 PM. Individual tastings and artisanal products have varying prices indicated by each vendor (typically €2–8 for samples).
Are there shows and entertainment during the festival?expand_more
Yes, the Festa della Ciliegia offers a rich program of entertainment: live music with local bands and regional artists, folkloric performances celebrating Irpinia traditions, exhibitions of master craftspeople at work, interactive workshops for children on cherry picking and processing, and community gatherings. The main stage in the square hosts performances at set times (consult the official program).
Is the Festa della Ciliegia suitable for families?expand_more
Absolutely. The festival is a family-friendly event with dedicated areas for children, educational workshops, entertainment for all ages, and plenty of food options. Tasting prices are affordable, and the square is safe and well-supervised. It's recommended to bring a water bottle and protect yourself from the sun with hats during daytime hours.
Can I contact the organizers for additional information?expand_more
Yes. You can contact the Santo Stefano del Sole Tourism Office at 0825-XXXXX or email [email protected]. Information is also available on the municipality's official website and the festival's social media pages (Facebook: ‹Festa della Ciliegia Santo Stefano del Sole›).
info
This event is not yet managed on sagr.it. Information may not be up to date.