April Events - Annual Artichoke Festival in Cerda, Sicily
Artichoke Festival in Cerda
Sicily places a lot of importance on artichokes, which are widely used in the Sicilian cuisine. The Artichoke Festival, an annual event held in honor of Sicily’s favourite vegetable, reflects the nation’s love for this flavour-filled and fragrant vegetable. The artichoke is a ubiquitous vegetable in Sicily and is used in almost every dish.
It is generally held that artichokes originated in Sicily and certain historical documents prove that the Sicilians grew artichokes even in 287 BC. Later in the ninth century, the Moors brought these vegetables to Sicily, following 
which it became Sicily’s staple food. The Sicilian artichokes not only contain flavours and fragrances that can transform dishes, but are also rich sources of Vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, fibre, calcium and iron.
The Artichoke Festival, which is celebrated every April, is a two-day event, which includes traditional live bands, parades, food tasting events, entertainment galore and art exhibits based on the theme of artichokes. Entry is free and when visitors draw close to Cerda, the venue of the Artichoke Festival, they will see a large statue of the artichoke.
The event presents an excellent opportunity to sample traditional artichoke dishes such as deep-fried artichokes and artichokes stuffed with raisins, herbs, breadcrumbs and parmigiano cheese. Cerda is also the best place to purchase some authentic Sicilian-grown artichokes.
Main Events & Festivals page.
