Discover the Magic of Cena dei Mille – Dinner of Thousand in Parma

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!

What is the Cena dei Mille?

The Cena dei Mille is a renowned gourmet event that gathers 1,000 guests each year to enjoy a multi-course meal prepared by chefs from all over Italy. Held in the historic heart of Parma, between Piazza Garibaldi and Strada della Repubblica, a 400-meter-long table sets the stage for a unique celebration of food, culture, and tradition.

Origins of the Cena dei Mille

The Cena dei Mille began as a project to honor Parma’s rich culinary heritage. It highlights the city’s leading role in the gastronomic world and reflects its deep community values, symbolizing unity through the shared experience of dining. Since its inception, the Cena dei Mille has grown in popularity and prestige, attracting food critics, tourists, and locals alike.

UNESCO Recognition of Parma

In 2015, Parma was designated a UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy, reinforcing its status as a global culinary destination. This recognition underscores Parma’s commitment to preserving and promoting its rich food culture.

Event Highlights

Quality Local Ingredients
At the Cena dei Mille, every dish is crafted from the finest local ingredients, representing the six sectors of the Food Valley: Prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano Reggiano, milk, pasta, tomato, and anchovies. From appetizers to desserts, tradition and innovation shine. Approximately 15 gastronomic islands will feature regional specialties such as Coppa di Parma, Salame di Felino, Culatello di Zibello, Coppini Arte Olearia oil, and other local delicacies.

Famous Chefs
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.

Setting and Decorations
The Cena dei Mille is renowned for its stunning mise-en-scène. A 400-meter-long table stretches along Parma’s main street, allowing everyone to share the joy of good food and company. From the early afternoon, you can watch the staff transform Piazza Garibaldi into an open-air workshop. Elegant decorations and lights enhance the event’s magical atmosphere, turning the streets into an enchanting open-air dining room.

Evening Festivities
The evening begins with a welcome aperitif, followed by a multi-course dinner. The service will be impeccable, ensuring an elegant and refined experience for all guests.

The Menu
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.

Wine Pairings
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.

InfoVisitor Information

The dress code is generally smart casual, and guests are encouraged to dress comfortably yet elegantly.

How to Book Your Package

For more information about our packages and to book your place at the Cena dei Mille, click here. We offer various packages, including event tickets, hotel stays, guided tours of historical monuments, food and wine tours with tastings, winery visits, and transportation to and from the event.

Why Attend

The Cena dei Mille is more than just a dinner; it is a celebration of Parma’s culinary heritage and food culture. Join us for an unforgettable gala dinner with gourmet cuisine and excellent wines in a naturally refined setting. Book your travel package now at Parma Incoming Travel and experience the magic of the Cena dei Mille.