Some of the most memorable moments in Tuscany aren’t always found in its most famous destinations. Sometimes, they’re found in small villages that remain unknown to many travellers and are rarely featured in international guidebooks. Lari is one of those places.
Whenever I’m asked about authentic events that truly reflect the spirit of the region, the Cherry Festival is always among my first recommendations. It’s more than a food festival;
it’s an opportunity to experience Lari at its liveliest, when local traditions, seasonal flavours and the village’s welcoming atmosphere come together.
Held every year between late May and early June, the Cherry Festival has honoured one of Lari’s most treasured local products since 1957. 1957.
Cherry growing in the Pisan Hills, and especially around Lari, is a centuries-old tradition, with historical records dating back to the 16th century. Even today, local growers continue to cultivate 14 native cherry varieties, each with its own distinctive flavour and unique characteristics. Known and appreciated throughout Italy, Lari
cherries were awarded the prestigious IGP (Protected Geographical Indication) status by the European Union in August 2023, recognising the quality and uniqueness of this product.
More than sixty years after its first edition, the festival continues to bring together
local producers, artisans and visitors, proudly celebrating a tradition that remains an important part of Lari’s identity.
One of the things I appreciate most about this event is that it never feels like it’s only about the cherries.
As you walk through the medieval streets of Lari, one of the first things you’ll notice is the warm hospitality of the local community. Throughout the village you’ll find artisan stalls, traditional food stands, live music and exhibitions, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the day.
On the final day of the festival, one of its longest-standing traditions takes centre stage: the prestigious Golden Cherry Award (Ciliegia d’Oro) is presented to the local grower whose cherries are judged to have the finest organoleptic qualities.
While the festival is undoubtedly the highlight, I always suggest setting aside time to discover the village itself.
Wander through its narrow streets, admire its historic buildings and visit the
beautiful Church of San Leonardo. Along the way, you’ll come across artisan shops,
the historic Pastificio Martelli, renowned for its traditional artisan pasta, and Forno Bernardeschi, a local bakery that has been serving the local community since 1927.
If you’d like to experience another part of the village’s culinary heritage, stop by
Macelleria Davide Balestri or Macelleria Ceccotti, two long-established butcher
shops.
Don’t miss the impressive Castello dei Vicari, where you can explore several historic rooms, including the ancient prisons and the former courtroom. From the castle, you’ll also enjoy beautiful views across the surrounding hills
Events like the Cherry Festival remind me that Tuscany isn’t only about its iconic cities or world-famous landmarks.
One of the things I enjoy most about my work is introducing travellers to villages and local communities, where traditions remain part of everyday life and are preserved with passion, year after year.
If you’re visiting Tuscany in late spring and would like to experience a more authentic side of the region, I hope you’ll consider adding the Cherry Festival in Lari to your itinerary
Thank you for reading!
Good to Know
🕐Quando: Every year between late May and early June
📍Dove: Piazza XX Settembre, 9, 56035 Lari (PI)
🎫Ingresso: Free (paid shuttle service available from the parking areas)
💻Sito ufficiale: https://www.visitcascianatermelari.it/
