Are you ready for an unforgettable culinary journey? Parma, nestled in Italy’s famed Food Valley, transforms into a gourmet paradise for the Cena dei Mille. This year, the event will take place on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 promising an evening of exquisite food, exceptional wines, and an atmosphere like no other. If you are a food lover or planning a visit to Parma, the Cena dei Mille is an event you cannot miss!
The Cena dei Mille is a prestigious gastronomic event that annually brings together 1,000 guests to savor a multi-course menu prepared by chefs from all over Italy. The event takes place in Parma's historic center, between Piazza Garibaldi and Strada della Repubblica, where a 400-meter-long table creates a unique setting that celebrates local food, culture, and traditions.
Born as a tribute to Parma's rich culinary tradition, the Cena dei Mille highlights the city's role as a gastronomic capital and reflects its deep community values, emphasizing unity through shared meals. Since its inception, the event has gained increasing popularity and prestige, attracting food critics, tourists, and residents eager to experience this unique occasion.
In 2015, Parma was awarded the title of UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy, further solidifying its reputation as a world-class culinary destination. This recognition underscores the city's commitment to preserving and promoting its rich food culture.
At the Cena dei Mille, the finest local ingredients are transformed into dishes representing the six pillars of the Food Valley: Prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano Reggiano, milk, pasta, tomatoes, and anchovies. Many gastronomic stations showcase typical regional products, including Coppa di Parma, Salame di Felino, Culatello di Zibello, and olive oil from Coppini Arte Olearia. A gourmet experience from the aperitif inspired by the gastronomic treasures of Parma to a signature menu created by renowned guest chefs, where tradition and innovation blend harmoniously.
The event features the participation of renowned chefs, along with collaborations with ALMA, Parma Quality Restaurants, and the Chef to Chef association. Guest chef for the 2025 edition will be Giancarlo Perbellini, one of the most acclaimed figures in Italian cuisine and a holder of three Michelin stars, who will craft the appetizer with an exclusive signature dish.
These culinary talents join forces to create an extraordinary gastronomic experience, highlighting local excellence with their unique flair.
One of the distinctive elements of the Cena dei Mille is its setting: a 400-meter-long table winding through Parma's main thoroughfare, allowing diners to share the joy of good food in good company. Piazza Garibaldi transforms into an open-air kitchen, where guests can observe the staff at work from the afternoon onwards. The event is enhanced by elegant decorations and lighting effects, creating a magical atmosphere that turns the streets into a charming open-air dining room.
The menu of the Cena dei Mille features a variety of courses, each crafted using traditional ingredients and preparations from the region. From the aperitif to the dessert, every dish tells the story of Parma’s rich culinary culture, following a philosophy centered on fresh, local, and top-quality ingredients — true to the event’s core values of authenticity and excellence.
For this year’s edition:
. The aperitif and first course will be curated by Parma Quality Restaurants;
. The appetizer will be signed by guest chef Giancarlo Perbellini, three Michelin stars, with a signature dish: egg, hummus, walnut and raisin bread, tamarind gel;
. The second course will be prepared by ALMA – The International School of Italian Cuisine;
. The dessert will be entrusted to the prestigious Chef to Chef association.
The wines served with each course have been carefully selected to enhance the flavors and offer a harmonious and elegant culinary experience. During the aperitif, guests will enjoy the Vini dei Colli di Parma, renowned and appreciated for their quality and deep connection to the local territory.
This year, throughout the dinner, each course will be paired with an exceptional wine selection: the refined Trentodoc di Ferrari Trento and the prestigious still wines from Tenute Lunelli, specially chosen to elevate the chefs’ creations and complete the sensory experience.
The recommended dress code is smart casual, encouraging guests to dress elegantly yet comfortably. For more details on available packages and to reserve your spot at the Cena dei Mille, you can discover our package "2 days / 1 night" or for a immersive and more complete experience "5 days / 4 nights". The offers include event tickets, hotel stays, guided tours of historical monuments, food and wine tours with tastings, winery visits, and transportation to and from the event.
The Cena dei Mille is more than just a dinner: it's a celebration of Parma's culinary heritage and gastronomic culture. Join us for an unforgettable evening, where you can enjoy gourmet dishes and excellent wines in a refined and evocative setting. Reserve your tour package now and experience the magic of the Cena dei Mille.
Parma Incoming s.r.l.
Registered office: Via Abbeveratoia, 63/a
43126 Parma
Tel.+39 0521 298.883
Fax +39 0521 298.826
e-mail: info@parmaincoming.it
certified mail: parmaincomingsrl@legalmail.it
VAT N. & Fiscal code: 02143200349 REA: PR-0214439
Share capital € 20.000,00 i.v.
