Events in Tuscany

In the evening prior to celebrating her Patron Saint, the city is decorated with more than 70,000 candle lights that are placed on buildings along the river Arno. This grand effect is magnified by the numerous lights set afloat and drifting down the river and the magnificent fire works.

A parade in mideval costumes precedes tris ancient ritual on the central bridge across the river Arno. Two rival parts of the city, those on the northern (Tramontana) and the southern (Mezzogiorno) banks of the river each form a team of 20 young men, who compete by pushing a seven-ton wagon onto the opposite side of the bridge.

To honor her patron Sain San Ranieri, the city organizes annually a row boat race that reminds us of her ancient past as a leading sea port. But there is a twist: the winner is not the first boat that crosses the finishing line, but the team that can first remove a small flag atop of a 30 ft rope at the end of the race.

A reconstruction of the medeval Volterra right in the middle of the historic center. Craftsmen, musicians, jugglers, noble ladies, knights, flag bearers and all kinds of colorful people in historic costumes are on the move between taverns, shops, churches, towers and palaces. Experience the magical atmosphere of a tuscan town in the year of 1398 AD.

The "tuber magnatum pico" is the most prized white truffle. The exposition is not just for selling and buying truffles, but showcases the local culture and attracts experts and those that are just friends of the truffle cuisine alike.

The "tuber magnatum pico" is the most prized white truffle. The exposition is not just for selling and buying truffles, but showcases the local culture and attracts experts and those that are just friends of the truffle cuisine alike.

This celebration of the Holy Cross is named after the thousands of candles that illuminate the streets where a holy procession takes place. At the center is a famous wooden cross that reached Lucca in a miraculous journey from the Holy Land.

In just a few years, this gardening show and expositition has become one of the most important events for italian horticulturists. See historical downtown aglow on colors and flowers!

This Carnival is much more political than its venetian competitor: Floats with the faces of political figures are moving through town. The worst disgrace for a politcian? Not to find yourself among the pointy-nosed and long-eared caricatures!

This event is located at the cathderal square and is followed by a parade in historic costumes from 10 to 12 am. The highlight is the lighting of a dove-shaped fireworks that starts at the main altar and races along a rope to the "brindellone" ( a cart). If all works as planned, the harvest is said to be good.

A soccer game between teams from each of the four quarters of the city, held on Piazza Santa Croce. The unusual rules allow almost anything, even touching the ball by hand!

 

Video calcio storico:

This most famous bareback horse race happens each year in the unique arena of the Piazza del Campo. The winning Contrada receives a colorful flag, the Palio. Spectacular try-outs and parades are held before and after the races.

La Giostra del Saracino is a historical commemoration dating to the XIV century that takes place twice a year in the Piazza Grande of Arezzo. Four couples of riders represent the four quarters of the city and they challenge each other galloping towards an armoured and armed machine that represents the "Saracino", trying to achieve the highest score possible by hitting it.
 

 

Note: The date in which these events take place might change. We recommend to verify all relevant details before planning your trip.