The perfect occasion to savour a quality Verdicchio wine is the Grape Festival in Cupramontana, one of the most ancient over Le Marche region taking place during the first week of October for decades. The first edition dates back to the 1928 and every year it still attracts thousands of visitors. This amazing event celebrates the harvest and and arises from a rich and centuries-old heritage of traditions, culture and agricultural economy. It is a festival for the people and houses many activities linked to the Earth.
During the event ancient farming traditions are recreated such as dances, among which the so called 'salterello', with local folk groups and typical songs that people sang in the fields during the harvest accompanied by the accordion.
Among the most anticipated celebrations there's the 'Palio del Verdicchio', a pressing competition with feet just like in the past. It is held on Saturday afternoon by the representatives of the towns producing the Verdicchio Doc.
A really interesting event is undoubtedly the parade of floats which is organised on Sunday afternoon. These masterpieces are entirely built by young people using grapes and other materials. Each float is inspired by a theme and has its own title and history which are always referring to Verdicchio.
If you want something to eat, in the historic centre of the town you'll find some stands with food and drink, offering excellent dishes of Le Marche cuisine and tastings of very refined wines. Local people defines these stands as 'huts', since they're completely covered with bamboo, seeing is believing!!! After dinner they turn to real open air discos with djs and music of all kinds.
The Grape festival is also entertainment, music and fun. Actors, groups of musicians and amazing guests enliven the streets of the town from 21,30 till early morning. Durign the four days dedicated to the festival you can also visit the International Museum of Label, take part to exhibits and other events all strictly linked to the town of Cupramontana. You cannot be bored!!!
To take part to the festival you'll need to buy an entry ticket. Generally there are different tariffs depending on the day: on Friday an Saturday the cost is about 12 euro, whereas on Sunday it is about 7 euro. Thursday instead is completely for free. I suggest you to book your tickets on line, you'll surely get a discount.
