There are a number of interesting food festivals or 'Sagre' during June in the region of Emilia Romagna. Look out for those dedicated to rosemary (in Lesignano), cherries (in Civitella), squid with peas (in Bellaria) and the wine and ciambella (in Castel Guelfo).
However, it is the festival held at Milano Marittima, celebrating the famous Piadina Romagnola, that we would like to highlight here.
First held in 1991, the festival is really a competition where the eight best piadinas are chosen by a poll amongst the public, followed by the choice of a supreme champion by an expert panel.
They judge for overall flavor, cooking level and taste when cold. After the selection wine and song flow in equal measures.
This simple bread of flour, salt and water is flat like a pancake but beautifully soft and slightly crispy at the same time.
The piadina does vary slightly around the region and can be called different names such as 'Pida', 'Piada' or 'Pie'.
The difference is usually in the thickness of the bread due to extra yeast, milk or even honey.
A piadina is delicious with salami, grilled meats, cheese and fruits and jams.
A very popular recipe of recent times is piadina with Nutella.