By Catia Giorni
In Pieve Santo Stefano, Spring Becomes a Celebration.
When a local festival becomes a fixed annual event, it is never by chance. In Pieve Santo Stefano, during the days of the Sagra del Prugnolo, it only takes a walk through the streets to understand why: the air fills with the scent of freshly cooked mushrooms, the squares come alive, and the town returns to life from morning to evening. We spoke about it with Alessio Cipriani, President of the Pro Loco and the driving force behind the event.
Valley Life: Alessio, how did the Sagra del Prugnolo begin, and why is it held in May?
Alessio Cipriani: We’ve reached the twenty-second edition, and by now it’s a deeply rooted event that people look forward to. The choice of May is linked to the quality of the prugnolo mushroom: it’s a spring mushroom that is at its best during this time. We tried moving the festival later, but it loses that distinctive flavor everyone is looking for. That’s why we stick to the second or third weekend of May, when it’s at its peak.
This year, the festival will take place from May 15 to 17, from Friday to Sunday. Over the years, the program has expanded: it used to be concentrated between Saturday evening and Sunday, but now it begins on Friday evening, with food stands open and live music. It’s the moment when the lights come on in the square, the music starts to play, and you naturally slip into the rhythm of the celebration.
Valley Life: And one of its strengths is exactly this—not just food, but also music, talks, and activities for everyone.
Alessio Cipriani: Exactly. Friday evening has a more “local village” feel, with live music and food stands. Saturday is the most complete day: it opens with the official inauguration, artisan and market stalls, and in the morning there’s also a conference dedicated to the local area.
The festival is not just about eating and dancing—although those remain central—but also about discovering and participating. There are activities such as truffle hunting demonstrations, initiatives linked to the hospitality sector, and a variety of events throughout the afternoon. The day ends with a dance evening, when the square fills up and time seems to slow down.
Valley Life: And of course, the true star is the prugnolo mushroom…
Alessio Cipriani: Absolutely. The signature dish is tagliolini al prugnolo: it’s what everyone comes for and what many plan their visit around. Alongside this, there are other dishes that highlight the mushroom in different ways—bruschetta, roasts, and stuffed pasta. It’s a cuisine that tells the story of the territory in a simple yet authentic way.
Valley Life: Sunday is a real celebration, with activities for the whole family.
Alessio Cipriani: Yes, it’s the most attended day. One of the highlights is the gathering of marching bands, with the local philharmonic and other groups: it creates a vibrant atmosphere and brings people into town. Alongside the music, there are activities for those who want to stay active, such as group walks and eco-bike rides, as well as lighter initiatives like traditional wooden games in the square. For children, there’s also a riding school offering free activities. The idea is to offer a complete day—not just a lunch.
There are many anecdotes that show how much the festival leaves a mark. For example, a family arrived by camper from Venice, stumbled upon the event by chance, and returned the following year. It’s a sign that when an event truly works, it stays in people’s hearts.
Valley Life: The real soul of the festival is the Pro Loco.
Alessio Cipriani: Absolutely. Behind the festival there is year-round work. The Pro Loco never stops: from January 1st to December 31st, we organize activities to keep the town alive, even during less touristy periods.
I would really like to take this opportunity to thank all the volunteers who dedicate their free time every day to make all of this possible. Each of them has a job, a family, and many commitments—yet they always find the time to help, bringing not only their support but also their smiles and their desire to be together.
I consider this almost a kind of miracle, because it is far from obvious. It shows that there is an energy and enthusiasm capable of bringing together people of all ages. And it is especially rewarding to see young people and even teenagers fully involved in the activities of the Pro Loco—because, ultimately, they are the future.
Valley Life: A festival that leaves something with those who experience it.
Alessio Cipriani: The Sagra del Prugnolo is exactly that: traditional cuisine, territory, and a program designed for everyone—from families to those simply looking for a different kind of weekend. The advice is simple: take the time to experience it fully. Between lunches, music, and events, there is always something to do. But above all, there is an atmosphere that is worth the journey.
Info: Ass. Proloco Pieve Santo Stefano A.p.s.
Via Roma, 5 – Pieve Santo Stefano (AR) – e-mail: ass.prolocopieve@gmail.com / www.prolocopieve.it