Sister City Vacri, Italy

The Farmington-Vacri Gemellaggio Committee supports the transnational cultural exchange and connection between the two cities.  Composed of volunteers with an interest and enthusiasm for the relationship with Vacri and Italian culture in general, the group helps cultivate ongoing dialogue around historic preservation, economic development, and cultural exchange, and raises funds to support that activity.

The relationship began with a chance encounter with the Sindaco (or Mayor) of Vacri, Italy, during an event at the Huron River Club.  That encounter led to discussions about the two cities, their similarities, and differences.  Their history extends back to the year 1056, with earlier signs of settlement in the 2nd and 3rd centuries, BC.  

Vacri has learned about Farmington’s growth as a city, its commitment to responsible development and densification, and its efforts to enhance public life through art, recreation, and community programming.  This ongoing dialogue resulted in a formal invitation from Vacri to collaborate with Farmington to achieve mutual goals for economic development, responsible growth, and cultural exchange. 

As the relationship deepened, a delegation from Vacri visited Farmington in October of 2025, during Italian-American Heritage Month.   Over a three-day period, the delegation experienced Farmington up close and how policy translates into action.    A sister city (or gemellaggio) letter was signed that formalized our connection and set goals for the future.   The visit was punctuated by the commissioning and unveiling of “La Foglia,” (or, “Leaf”) an art piece sponsored by the Italian Consulate in Detroit. 

In June of 2026, a delegation from Farmington visited Vacri to experience their city, its history, beauty, and people.  The visit included stops a local community assets like the Cantina Sociale (or local winemaking facility), the local school, and significant memorial, religious, and artistic points of interest.  A formal ceremony at the Vacri City Council meeting was followed by dinner in piazza, with over 250 residents of Vacri joining in celebration of the new friendship between our cities. 

For more information about the Gemellagio Committee and its work, contact Mayor Joe LaRussa, jlarussa@farmgov.com