BUTI – The Palio in Buti on January 20th (Tuscany)

It is a folkloristic event in the municipality of Buti, an ancient medieval village in the province of Pisa. The prize is centered on a horse race conducted by jockeys who, representing the seven districts in which the country is divided, compete in a race whose scenery is the main access road to the town; together with the Palio di Siena and the Palio di Asti, it is one of the oldest Palios on horseback in Italy. In the last years the race has also been added a historical costume parade, shows, typical events and moments of entertainment.

PERUGIA – Luminara di San Costanzo from 28th to 29th (Umbria)

Every year, on the eve of the festival, the tradition is renewed with a commemoration that brings the city back in time: the civil and rebelievable authorities parade through the center of the historian bringing as a tribute to the patron five gifts: the laurel wreath, the candle , torcolo, incense and vin santo. The day after the festivities continue with the fair, the historic exhibition of local products and crafts, while in the center are distributed to all the pasanti slices of the “Torcolo di San Costanzo”, the typical dessert of this anniversary.

VENICE – Carnival (Veneto)

The Carnival ends with the Christian celebration of Lent, forty days before Easter, on Shrove Tuesday (Martedì Grasso or Mardi Gras), the day before Ash Wednesday.
A two weeks spectacle of masks, fancy dress and spirited parties, that sees throngs of costumed people pack the famous St Mark’s Square.
It is in the eighteenth century that the Venice Carnival reaches its maximum splendor, acquiring international resonance throughout Europe.
The disguise is the very essence of the party, where masks and costumes become indispensable tools to create the climate of this time of year, dedicated to transgression, lightheartedness, lightness and fun.
The streets, the fields, then turn into a great stage where everything seems to become possible for the guarantee of total anonymity: jugglers, acrobats, acrobats, musicians, dancers, it is easy to attend sensational performances throughout the period of party, but some events become special moments for the public who rushes to the city. For example, do not miss the traditional and exciting “Volo dell’Angelo” which officially opens the Carnival celebrations in Piazza San Marco. It was a young Turkish tightrope walker who was the first protagonist of this extraordinary event: the acrobat, with only the aid of a barbell, managed to reach the top of the San Marco bell tower, then walking over a long rope that started from a boat anchored on the pier della Piazzetta, arrived at the balcony of the Palazzo Ducale, where he paid tribute to the Doge. The spectacular enterprise was so successful that not only professionals but also young Venetians in the following years challenged themselves in this challenge; in 1759, however, the exhibition ended in tragedy with the crash of the unfortunate tightrope walker. Because of that misfortune, the acrobat was since then replaced with a large wooden dove coming down scattering confetti and flowers on the crowd.

CATANIA – Saint Agatha’s feast day from 3rd to 5th (Sicily)

It is a big festival that includes the second largest religious procession in the world.
The feast opens with a procession for the offer of wax which is present as well as citizens and tourists, the highest religious and institutional offices of the city, ending in the evening in Piazza Duomo with the characteristic and much awaited fireworks show
On the morning of the second day, the Mass of the Aurora will be celebrated, where the reliquary bust of Saint Agatha, after a year of waiting, will be taken out of the room that has guarded it, and “delivered” to the devotees who will carry it in a procession that it will end with the return to the Cathedral late at night.
On the third day at the Cathedral the Mass of the Pontifical will be presided by the highest local religious offices and not by the clergy. Throughout the day the reliquary bust of St. Agatha will remain exposed at the Cathedral and finally in the afternoon after Holy Mass will be entrusted again to the devotees for a last procession that will see it finish in the late morning of the following day.
During the three days of celebration in all the main streets of the historic center of Catania will be prepared artistic lighting that will give a special party light to the whole city. Every year the ornamental motifs vary but the effect is always very engaging and suggestive.

MODENA – Modenantiquaria (Antiques Fair) from 9th to 17th (Emilia Romagna)

Modenantiquaria is the longest standing and most visited high-quality antiques fair in Italy.
It is among the most representative expressions of the antique arts market in Europe.
It looks on collecting as the lifeblood of the artistic and cultural history of Europe but is also fully aware of the new dynamics and the most up-to-date requirements of the antiques market, collectors and the general public.

MILAN – Milano Fashion Week from 19th to 25th (Lombardy)

It is a very famous event both in Italy and abroad and includes fashion shows of the collections made by the most important haute couture houses.
The events dedicated to women’s fashion are the highlight of the fashion week and in particular “Womenswear”, “Milan SS Women Ready to Wear” and “Milano Moda Donna” are the most important fashion shows. The events dedicated to men’s fashion are “Menswear” and “Milano Moda Uomo”.

AGRIGENTO – Almonds in bloom fair from 1st to 10th  (Sicily)

The goal is to celebrate the arrival of spring with the blooming of almond trees and to rejoice for the return of life. Many folk groups come to Agrigento from all over the world to take part.
The event begins with a visit, at sunset, to the Valley of the Temples and continues with the lighting of the “friendship torch” in front of the Temple of Concordia. The most important event of the festival takes place during the closing, when the folk groups parade with the Sicilian carts and the musical bands from the city to the Valley of the Temples. In addition, a conclusive artistic performance is always carried out at the foot of the Temple of Concordia while you can attend, in front of the temple of Hercules, the award ceremony of the Golden Temple, award representing the temple of Castor and Pollux, which is delivered by an international jury to the groups that have danced and sung better and who has the best traditional costume.
During the festival, there are also exhibitions and tastings of the almond with the aim of advertising this typical Sicilian product.

ROME – Easter (Lazio)

Depending on when Easter falls, Easter week in Rome is marked with a number of events led by the Pope, including a Palm Sunday Mass in Saint Peter’s Square and the Settimana Santa procession of the stations of the cross at the Colosseum, both of which attract large numbers of visitors.

FLORENCE – Scoppio del Carro or Explosion of the Cart (Tuscany).

This is one of Easter’s most unusual events that it takes place in front of the Cathedral in Florence
This is an old traditional Florentine festival. The “Brindellone”, a pyrotechnical tower positioned on a cart, is pulled by a pair of oxen on the streets of the historic center of Florence and positioned between the baptistery and the cathedral. At the height of the ceremony, the archbishop lights a dove-shaped rocket from the altar of the cathedral which, through a cord mechanism, runs through the central nave of the church and reaches the wagon outside, causing it to explode. If the ritual proceeds regularly and all the fireworks explode, according to tradition, a rich and prosperous harvest is expected and good luck for the city and its citizens.
This is a suggestive show that, if you are in Florence, it is worth to attend.

ALBEROBELLO – Festival of Tarallucci and Wine – exact dates to be defined (Apulia)

In the historic center of Alberobello during this festival you can find tables prepared with thousand delights from Puglia (tarallucci, focaccia, oil, fresh pasta – orecchiette primarily – fried calzoni, almonds etc), stalls, stands and at each corner amphorae and glasses full of the wine produced in this region, the “Primitivo di Puglia”.
Many of the “Trulli”, the typical and famous houses of Alberobello, host shops where you can buy local gastronomic products. During this typical festival you can get in touch with the traditions, customs and traditions of this beautiful region!

ROME – Rome’s birthday on April 21st (Lazio)

April 21st is indeed a very important date for the city, one in which the foundation of Rome is celebrated. According to the legend told by Varrone, April 21th, 753 BC Romulus founded the city of Rome.
It is an entire day dedicated to the ancient splendor of Rome between meetings, shows, parades, recreational activities for children, exhibitions, music and on the occasion of this important event the city will open its doors to museums and archaeological areas that will be free for all citizens and tourists eager to discover the wonders of Rome.
There’s usually a fireworks display over the Tiber River and gladiator shows around the forum area.

VENICE – San Marco’s feast day on April 25th (Veneto)

A lagoon recurrence where myth and tradition, religion and romance, three legendary stories, a patron saint and the ritual gift of a red rose bud coexist for centuries: in fact men offer a single rosebud to the woman they love in celebration of the city’s patron saint.
On this day of great celebration, do not miss the procession in the Basilica of San Marco, in which the religious and civil authorities of the city participate. The occasion also allows you to stop and admire the precious Pala d’Oro covered with precious stones and placed behind the high altar, considered a cult object for centuries. A must is then a stop at the stalls in Piazza San Marco to buy the rosebud to give to your beloved, remembering that the gift, as well as for wives and girlfriends, in modern times also applies to mothers and daughters.
And to end this unique and fairytale day in sweetness, you can reach the Isola delle Vignole by boat to taste the traditional Venetian cuisine based on Artichoke Violet of Sant’Erasmo in the middle of the harvest season or taste the honey of flowers of Artichoke Violet in Sant’Erasmo or the one of Barena, both nowhere to be found elsewhere.

CASTIGLIONE DEL LAGO – Tulip Festival from 24th to 28 th April (Umbria)

Every year since 1956 in Castiglione del Lago there is the Spring Festival in honor of the tulips that were cultivated by Dutch families who moved to the lake and from which this event began and became a traditional event.
During this period the town is embellished with flowers: windows, balconies and small carts with the first flower, the one too short to be sold. You can admire the parade of allegorical floats decorated exclusively with tulips and the Palio; during these days there will also be the opening of typical taverns, costumed games, the display of windows, balconies, squares and alleys.

BARI – San Nicola’s Feast day from 6th to 9th (Apulia)

During these days Bari celebrates the iconic figure of San Nicola, the patron saint of the cities, with a party that involves everyone, adults and children, young and old … a festival that is primarily a re-enactment of the medieval past projected into the past through a historical procession of 60 characters, figures and flag bearers, committed to lead the relics of the saint through the streets of Bari.
Shows include about 500 costumed interpreters who are guided, among the alleys of the city, between horses and knights, a multitude of people preceded by the Sacred Icon.
There are also suggestive fireworks, sacred processions and musical concerts.

NOTO – Infiorata di Noto on the third weekend of May (Sicily)

That of Noto is the most famous “Infiorata” of Magna Graecia and floods the historic Via Nicolaci with color, bringing the rainbow to earth.
The path, which develops slightly uphill, is like a long and precious walkway and is perfect for unrolling a spectacular blanket of flowers, as well as being the most baroque flavor of all, extremely elegant and sophisticated.
In Noto the idea of the Infiorata was born in 1980 to enhance the town and show its value to everyone; The young people of the city, with the help of the elderly, the ladies and the local artists, skilfully browsed through the first Infiorata, with thousands of poppies, roses, daisies, gerberas and carnations. The petals fell like confetti in the baskets and become the brushstrokes of an original painting.
In every corner of the street or square there are floral sketches that start from the Infiorata competition, which each year has a different theme.
To frame the incredible floral show there are also many side events, such as events, exhibitions, exhibitions, asperturous museums.

CESENA – Hot air balloons Festival 6 th – 7 th – 13 th – 14 th April (Emilia Romagna)

The Balloon Festival is a great sports show dedicated to the air giants. The balloons will color the sky of Cesena, exciting families who want to spend a day full of fun.
Numerous educational and recreational workshops will complement the flights and the extraordinary shows offered by the balloons.

NEPI (VT) – Palio dei Borgia on 26th May (Lazio)

Not a simple Palio, but a real journey back in time between ladies, knights, musicians and archers. Nepi is preparing to retrace the most important years of its history, from the war against the Saracens to the popular uprisings in the Middle Ages, up to the greeting of the population to Lucrezia Borgia who in 1499 took possession of the Castle: a glorious period that will revive as if by magic in everything the historic center of the village. It is the magic of the Palio dei Borgia that will once again ignite the rivalry between the four “Contrade” – Santa Croce, San Biagio, Santa Maria and La Rocca – between medieval games, historical processions and characteristic tavern dinners.
Great space will also be given to the gastronomy of the territory: every evening the taverns and taverns of the four “Contrade” will be open and ready to serve the typical dishes of the local cuisine.

SAN VITO LO CAPO (TP) – International Kite Festival from 16th to 19 th May (Sicily)

In the enchanting setting of San Vito Lo Capo, a small seaside village in Sicily with its enchanting beach, its crystal clear sea and the scents of jasmine and couscous, kites of various types, colors and sizes will be flying again, built with leaves, with rice paper , with designs that evoke flora and fauna, from the most disparate forms and coming from various parts of the world.
Numerous performances throughout the day, from the morning up to the particularly suggestive night shows, with the flight of pyrotechnic kites that, floating in the night sky, give life to a play of lights similar to that created by fireworks.

VENICE – The Marriage of the Sea Aka, the Marriage of the Adriatic. On the Ascension’s day (40 days after Easter) (Veneto)

The festival will begin with the classic water procession consisting of the rowing boats of the Venetian Vogue Society and led by the “Serenissima”, a border of which will be found at the Mayor and the city authorities. From San Marco the procession will reach the Bocca di Porto di San Nicolò, where the ceremony of the Marriage of the Sea will be recalled with the symbolic launch of the ring in the water. Once arrived at the Lido, the traditional religious function will take place in the church of San Nicolò from the typical market in the external square.
The day will be concentrated with the Sensa regattas, which includes various Venetian rowing competitions.

ROME – Italian National Day or Republic Day on June 2nd (Lazio)

It is a national holiday and it marks the fall of fascism and the moment Italians voted after World War II to institute a republic and oust the monarchy.
The feast of the Republic is a civil recurrence, so it is a day dedicated to official ceremonies more or less important.
In Rome, being the capital of Italy, the main festivities are held: the historic military parade takes place in Via dei Fori Imperiali with the solemn change of the Guardia d’Onore, which involves the Carabinieri on horseback.
But the most spectacular moment of the whole event is undoubtedly the acrobatic performance of the “Frecce Tricolori”, on the skies of the capital. Their trails of red, white and green are a historical symbol of the Republic Day.
The festivities continue also in the afternoon, with the opening to the public of the gardens of the Quirinale, where concerts held by bands of military bodies of our country are held with the anthem of Mameli, or Italian anthem, undisputed protagonist.

PISA – Luminara di San Ranieri on June 16th (Tuscany)

In Pisa, the patron saint of the city, San Ranieri, is celebrated with a suggestive show of lights the evening before the patronal feast, when the Lungarni of the city light up thanks to the spectacle of the Luminara di San Ranieri.
Over 100,000 wax candles, which draw the illuminated profiles of palaces, bridges, churches and towers overlooking the river, making the whole city of Pisa magical.
Many lights, contained in transparent plastic glasses, are also entrusted to the current of the water by a magic of floating lights unequaled enhanced by the extinguishing of public lighting. The show continues until late in the evening when the pyrotechnic show starts from the citadel and some floating platforms on the Arno. The celebrations in honor of the Patron Saint continue the next day with the suggestive Palio di San Ranieri.

FLORENCE – San Giovanni’s feast day on June 24th (Tuscany)

On June 24th, Florence celebrates its patron saint, San Giovanni, considered the “symbol of moral rectitude and political correctness” and for the whole city is a day of celebration.
Every year for San Giovanni various cultural and folk events take place, culminating with the evocative fireworks.
The Feast of San Giovanni has ancient origins: once nobles and lords to celebrate the patron saint of Florence donated candles and candles. With the growth of the power of the city and its lords then, the candles became more and more beautiful and rich and partly were destined for the Baptistery, while the others were sold and the proceeds used for the Church.
In the morning a small city procession, which also includes the mayor of Florence and other authorities, as a result of the Gonfalone, starts from Palazzo Vecchio and symbolically bears a gift to the patron of the candles in the Baptistery. Here the Archbishop of Florence receives the offer and all then go to the Cathedral for the celebration of a solemn mass.
On the occasion of the feast of the San Giovanni are generally organized boat visits, both during the day and during the explosion of fireworks and the final of the historic Florentine football is played, a thrilling game born in the sixteenth century in Florence. The two teams that have won the final between the four – namely Santa Croce (blue), Santo Spirito (white), Santa Maria Novella (red) and San Giovanni (green) – on 24 June challenge each other on the pitch set up in Piazza Santa Cross under the eyes of Florentines and tourists.
The long day of celebrations of the patron saint of Florence ends with a great fireworks display. The fireworks are exploded from approximately 10 pm to 11 pm from Piazzale Michelangelo, an elevated position ideal to make them admire from different points of the city.

PISA – Il Gioco del Ponte – Game of the Bridge – on the last Saturday (Tuscany)

Il Gioco del Ponte is preceded by a parade, a sort of historical procession of about 710, dressed in costumes in the style of the sixteenth-century Spanish along the 4 Lungarni of Pisa.
It takes place on the Ponte di Mezzo, one of the many of the city that cross the Arno and sees the various districts, deployed in two teams – Mezzogiorno and Tramontana depending on the position, south (the first) or north of the Arno (the second) to fight with a cart mounted for the occasion on the bridge.
On the central part of the bridge is set up on the rails a cart on which they must position the participants of both teams – 20 for each – captained and directed by the Captain (of course!). The aim is to push the cart towards the opposing side: the challenge is considered terminated when the position flag of the enemy side is dropped.

FERRARA – Palio San Giorgio on 2nd June (Emilia Romagna)

The Palio of Ferrara has the most ancient prize of the world: in 1259, in fact, to celebrate Azzo VII “Novello d’Este”, marquis of the city, victorious over Ezzelino da Romano in Cassano d’Adda, the first Palio was run of the history of Ferrara.
Besides being the oldest in the world, the Palio of Ferrara is particular for the type of race, which is a festive rush unlike many warrior Palios. It is a particular and important moment for the city that dresses in the colors of the districts, which descend into the Piazza to earn the prize, but also – and above all – to celebrate and remember the Renaissance, a time when Ferrara was really among the cultural capitals of Europe.
The Palios held in Piazza Ariostea are the four: the green one dedicated to San Paolo for the run of the putte, the red one of San Romano for the race of the putti, the white one dedicated to San Maurelio for the race of the donkeys and finally the yellow one of San Giorgio for the horse race.
There are alsocompetitions of flag-wavers and musicians, who see the representations of the eight districts in seven
specialties.

FLORENCE – Uffizi Gallery, opening of 14 new rooms with works of Venetian and Florentine paintings
(Tuscany)

The Uffizi Gallery in Florence has opened 14 new rooms and exhibits an immense heritage of works otherwise removed from public view. These are some of the treasures of the great Venetian and Florentine paintings of the sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries, located on the first floor of the Uffizi in 14 new rooms completely set up. Wonderful works, such as Titian’s ‘Venus of Urbino’, placed in a room specially dedicated to her; or the monumental ‘Madonna del Popolo’ by Federico Barocci returned after almost ten years of distance from the eyes of the public; a new room entirely dedicated to the masterpieces of Venetian naturalism and others for those of Tintoretto and Veronese, with over 30 paintings that come back visible after a long time.
The colors of the walls of the rooms are natural and laid out according to the ancient methods, which make them vibrant and alive: green for Venetian painting – a green taken from curtains and wall coverings that can be seen in so many Venetian Renaissance paintings – dark gray for Tuscan painting that recalls the serene stone of the Uffizi architecture.

SIENA – The Palio horse race in Siena on July 2nd (Tuscany)

The Palio is the most important event organized in the city of Siena and takes place every year on July 2nd (Palio di Provenzano, in honor of the Madonna di Provenzano) and on August 16th (Palio dell ‘Assunta, in honor of the Assumption of Maria).
In the Palio the various Sienese Contrade, or the “zones” in which the city is divided, compete in a passionate horse race in Piazza del Campo.
Siena is currently divided into 17 Contrade but only 10 Contrade participate in the competition.
Each Contrada is distinguished by a unique coat of arms and colors and occupies a certain area of the city.
The Palio is much more than a simple manifestation for the Sienese, it is part of their life since birth. The contradaioli, so they are called the members of a Contrada, participate in the life of their Contrada and the organization of the Palio throughout the year. The Sienese live the Palio with great passion and transport and you will certainly realize it if you have the opportunity to attend a race or to be in Siena the days before the race.

CERVIA – The Salt Route at the end of July (Emilia Romagna)

The salt of Cervia is a unique salt in the world: marine, whole and sweet. This precious salt was transported to Venice during the celebrations for the Marriage of the Sea. Today the Rotta del Sale is re-enacted with a solemn and suggestive ceremony, where a procession of figures in period costume winds through the city center accompanied by a flag-waving show. Once at the Piazzale dei Salinari, the historical procession greets the departure of the boats for Venice, but not before the salt workers dressed in the costumes of the time loaded the salt on the boats. Once loaded the boats parade through the canal to then take the path of the open sea along the Salt Route.
An evening with an ancient flavor to celebrate the importance of salt in the history of Cervia and the strong bond with the Republic of Venice.

CALTAGIRONE – Illuminated staircase in Caltagirone from 24th to 25 th July (Sicily)

On the occasion of the feast of the Patron Saint James, the 142 steps of the Staircase of Santa Maria al Monte, which connects the old part to the new part of Caltagirone, light up. There are over 4000 tiles laid out on the staircase, prepared by hand with a terracotta bowl with a cotton wick and olive oil used for lighting. The tiles are arranged with a precise design and towards evening, at the whistle of the foreman, hundreds of people turn them on. The light of the tiles creates a colorful and fiery design.

SIENA – The Palio horse race on August 16th (Tuscany)

The Palio is the most important event organized in the city of Siena and takes place every year on July 2 (Palio di Provenzano, in honor of the Madonna di Provenzano) and on August 16 (Palio dell ‘Assunta, in honor of the Assumption of Maria).
In the Palio the various Sienese Contrade, or the “zones” in which the city is divided, compete in a passionate horse race in Piazza del Campo.
Siena is currently divided into 17 Contrade but only 10 Contrade participate in the competition.
Each Contrada is distinguished by a unique coat of arms and colors and occupies a certain area of the city.
The Palio is much more than a simple manifestation for the Sienese, it is part of their life since birth. The contradaioli, so they are called the members of a Contrada, participate in the life of their Contrada and the organization of the Palio throughout the year. The Sienese live the Palio with great passion and transport and you will certainly realize it if you have the opportunity to attend a race or to be in Siena the days before the race.

COMO – Palio del Baradello from August 30th to September 24th (Lombardy)

The Palio del Baradello sees each year compete towns of Como and neighboring towns for the conquest of Pallium, an artistic drape decorated by hand by good local artists. The challenge takes place at the best of the three tests and is made even more exciting by the historical parade that recalls the visit to Como of Barbarossa and his consort Beatrice di Borgogna, along the streets of the city in a triumph of drums, trumpet blasts, appearing in costume, war machines and even the Communal Chariot.
During these days there are numerous medieval games and tournaments, historical parades, parties and re-enactments, which involve local people but also many visitors from all backgrounds.

VENICE – Venice International Film Festival at the end of August (Veneto)

The event takes place in the historic Palazzo del Cinema, on the Lungomare Marconi, on the Lido of Venice. It is the oldest film festival in the world, the first edition was held in 1932, preceded only by the Academy Award, commonly known as Oscar.
The main prize that is awarded (along with several others) is the Golden Lion, which owes its name to the symbol of the city (the Lion of San Marco). This recognition is considered one of the most important from the point of view of film criticism, like those assigned in the other two major European film festivals, the Golden Palm of the Cannes Film Festival and the Golden Bear of the International Film Festival of Berlin.
In the days of the event actors, Italian and international guests, great directors land in the lagoon and attract visitors from Italy and abroad.

CASINA – Parmigiano Reggiano Fair at the beginning of August (Emilia Romagna)

Tastings are the protagonists of the Parmigiano Reggiano Fair in Casina: in the main Square of Casina, as well as tasting this Italian excellence, you can also watch the spectacular cooking of the form with the traditional wood fire. Before the fireworks show, at the end of the event, a jury of expert tasters will award a prize to the specimen of Parmigiano Reggiano aged with more balance. During the fair there will also be a market of gastronomic products from nearby areas such as wines, mushrooms, chestnuts etc, concerts and performances by street artists, music.

VENICE – The Regata Storica on the first Sunday (Veneto)

The Historical Regatta is the main appointment of the annual Voga alla Veneta competition calendar, a unique discipline in the world practiced for thousands of years in the Venice lagoon. Today it is made even more spectacular by the famous historical procession that precedes the races: a parade of dozens of sixteenth-century boats, multicolored and with gondoliers in costume, carrying the doge, the Dogaressa and all the highest offices of the Venetian Magistrature, in a faithful reconstruction of the glorious past of one of the most powerful and influential Maritime Republics of the Mediterranean. Today the four competitions are divided by age categories and by type of boat: the most famous and exciting is the regatta of the champions on Gondolini, which speed in the Grand Canal to the finish line in front of the famous “Machina”, a spectacular floating stage in front at the Ca ‘Foscari palace.

VERONA – Juliet’s Birthday (of Romeo and Juliet) on the first week end of September (Veneto)

In the first weekend of September, the city dresses up for a very special birthday: that of Giulietta Capuleti. In the evocative Piazza dei Signori and in the Cortile Mercato Vecchio banks of arts and crafts, jesters, painters, theaters, fights, armigers, costumed people, music, theater and a medieval tavern are ready to take us back in time.

LUCCA – Luminara di Santa Croce on September 13th (Tuscany)

The ritual includes a procession that, starting from the Basilica of San Frediano, crosses the whole city until arriving at the Duomo to pay homage to the wooden crucifix, where the Blessing is given and the traditional Mottettone is performed (a choral and instrumental polyphonic composition , composed year by year by Lucca’s musicians). Characteristic, and indispensable element, of the Feast of Santa Croce is the Luminara: all the participants in the procession usually carry a candle or a lamp, as all the buildings along the procession route are lit or decorated with small glasses containing of candles.

NAPLES – San Gennaro’s feast day on September 19th (Campania)

Like every year, Naples dresses up for what is a religious festival, but also a recurrence mixed with beliefs and superstition come together waiting for the famous miracle of liquefaction. According to tradition, the blood of the martyr Ianuario, collected after his beheading in 305 AD. by a woman, it is kept in two ampoules in a double lock safe in the Cathedral of Naples.
During the day of September 19th, the ampoules are exposed to the public near the altar and the blood contained in them becomes liquid between the prayers and the supplications of the faithful.
The rapid liquefaction of the blood of San Gennaro is considered a sign of good omen for the future and is welcomed by the devotees with prayers, screams of joy, joy, hugs and applause.
On this day there are many religious and lay events dedicated to him.

MILAN – Milano Fashion week from September 17th to September 24th (Lombardy)

It is a very famous event both in Italy and abroad and includes fashion shows of the collections made by the most important haute couture houses.
The events dedicated to women’s fashion are the highlight of the fashion week and in particular “Womenswear”, “Milan SS Women Ready to Wear” and “Milano Moda Donna” are the most important fashion shows. The events dedicated to men’s fashion are “Menswear” and “Milano Moda Uomo”.

ASTI – Palio of Asti on 1 st September (Piedmont)

At the center of this event, one of the oldest historical re-enactments in Italy, a characteristic race of horses “furred” and a historical procession of more than 1200 participants from all the districts, villages and municipalities participating in the Palio that represent highlights of the city’s history.
The event begins with the parade of the historical parade through the streets of Asti, then the Palio, an amazing race with mounted horses without saddle, and at the end of the race, a spectacular display of the flag wavers. In the days before the Palio Asti comes alive with many shows, activities and propitiatory dinners in the districts and municipalities.

GREVE IN CHIANTI – Chianti Classico Expo from 5th to 8 th September (Tuscany)

The Chianti Classico Expo is the Review of Chianti Classico Wine, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Grappa and Typical Products of Small Companies in the Chianti Classico areas.
This event is a privileged occasion to learn about Chianti Classico wine in its production area: Chianti. These days Greve in Chianti offers its visitors an even richer program of artistic and cultural events, events related to the rural world, close encounters with winemakers, their vineyards and cellars. besides the possibility to taste the products coming from this territory.

ALBA – International Alba White Truffle Fair from October 6th to November 18th (Langhe Area – Piedmont)

During the eight weeks of the Fair, the “jewel of the earth” will be at the center of a rich program of events including fairs, exhibitions, cooking shows, food and wine as well as cultural, musical, literary, folk and sports events. A schedule featuring events for about two months involving not only Alba, but the whole territory where, year after year, the mystery and magic of the Tuber magnatum Pico are renewed, which has become, only in these areas, the symbol of a heritage of collective experiences combining catering, hospitality and the authentic Italian way of life.
October is a busy month for Italian food festivals, especially for mushrooms, chestnuts, chocolate, truffles, oil and wine harvest celebrations all over Italy.

VIGEVANO – Palio delle Contrade from 11th to 14th October (Lombardy)

The Palio delle Contrade in Vigevano is a historical re-enactment where you can admire the reconstruction of the Renaissance Village, the evocative Historical Procession and the fascinating Games.
During the evenings preceding the Palio, torchlight parades, processions, and dances are organized to arrive on Sunday, the day on which you can attend the Palio: a historical procession, where the citizens parade in representation of the ancient nobility but also of the common guilds, precedes a series of games between the representatives of the city districts.

LUCCA – Lucca Comics & Games from 30 th October to 3 rd November (Tuscany)

Lucca Comics & Games is an international Festival of comics, animation, illustration and games.
During the days of the exhibition various events take place including, concerts, screenings, meetings with authors, presentations, live role-playing tournaments and cosplayers and shows dedicated to the comics and animation sector in general.
It is also possible to find exhibitions and exhibitions dedicated to the main world artists or titles of works present at the festival. Some of these exhibitions are set up in the evocative Renaissance setting of the city, within the same ancient Lucca palaces.

MILAN – I Maestri del Panettone – exact dates to be fixed (Lombardy)

Legend has it that Panettone was invented at the end of 400 by a kitchen boy at the court of Ludovico Il Moro and has become the Christmas dessert par excellence. During this event 25 masters of confectionery art meet to offer a taste of their talent, bringing 100 panettone, the best in Italy.
Visitors to this particular event will have the opportunity to taste the real panettone, the craft, inimitable in many versions: the limoncello panettone, the one with pecans and chocolate, the one with white figs.
It is possible to attend sessions of guided tastings, master classes, workshops (also for children) and meetings with pastry chefs.

CHIANNI – Wild boar festivals – exact dates to be determined (Tuscany)

In Chianni, a delightful village nestled in the Tuscan hills just south of Pisa, there is the Sagra del Cinghiale, a historical festival that brings us back to the flavors and traditions of a genuine country cooking with typical recipes based mainly on game.
During the festival there will also be events and collateral activities such as a photo exhibition, an exhibition on the history of olive oil, live music, shows, etc.

CREMONA – Nougat Festival from 16 th to 24 th November (Lombardy)

Nougat Festival is a traditional event for the city of Cremona that highlights one of the most prized gastronomic excellences of Lombardy and Italy. According to the legend the Nougat was born on the occasion of the marriage between Bianca Maria Visconti and Francesco Sforza and it is precisely for this reason that during this festival the re-enactment of this marriage is made with a historical procession that involves more than 100 characters all dressed in revival costumes. Then there are games, entertainments, tasting of gastronomic delicacies and cultural events.

MILAN – The Legend of Panettone: love and food go hand in hand from 8th December to 7th January

A slice of Panettone and a flute of Prosecco is the best way to say Merry Christmas in Italy. The birth place of this traditional cake is Milan: discover with our expert guide the secrets of the legend behind it, taste a slice of our Panettone and learn how to cook it at home!
Curious fact: Panettone was invented by a young guy who wanted to impress the daughter of a baker that he was in love with. Guess how the story ends!

FLORENCE – Florence and the Medicean “Procession of Magi” from 8th December to 7th January

Discover some of the most fascinating locations of Florence city center, starting from the guided visit of “Cappella dei Magi” and following the steps of the most sumptuous representation held at the time of the Medici.
Curious fact: To celebrate the Feast of Epiphany, on the 6th of January, a historical recreation of the Procession of the Magi will be attended. The cavalcade will pass through the streets of Florence and reach Piazza Duomo where the Magi will place their gifts at the foot of the living crib.

DERUTA – Pottery laboratory: create your personal Christmas bauble from 8th December to 7th January

Deruta is one of the most beautiful villages of Umbria, a region in the centre of Italy, and it’s famous for its hand-made pottery. Learn how to work with ceramic and create your own Christmas bauble to bring a personal decoration at home!
Curious fact: Every Christmas a tree made of ceramic is placed in the main square of Deruta and adorned with ceramic baubles made by local artisans. It’s the highest pottery tree in the world!

NAPLES – Naples between the Sacred and the Profane  from 8th December to 7th January

Take a walk through Naples streets, the most superstitious city of Italy. Learn about “maluc (bad luck) and the remedies used by locals to protect their families, bringing home your Neaptalisman as a memory!
Curious fact: Did you know that Neapolitans use to give a box of salt as a gift for Christmas? Would you like to know why? Come to Naples to find out what happens if you do the same at home!

ROME – Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th (Lazio)

It is a national holiday. There are celebrations throughout Italy, and the churches hold special masses. You’ll find parades, feasts, and music in many places.
In Rome, the Pope will go, in the afternoon, to Piazza di Spagna for the traditional tribute to the statue of the Immaculate (Piazza Mignanelli), but it is also the day in which Christmas tree and Nativity are traditionally decorated.

NAPLES – Christmas markets on December 8th (Campania)

It is a common practice in many Italian families to go to Christmas markets to buy some new characters that will enrich the nativity scene or some new decoration for the house. In Naples, the shops of San Gregorio Armeno, are famous for the statues that depict the characters of the Nativity scene.

ORVIETO – Jazz Festival at the end of December – exact dates to be fixed (Umbria)

Orvieto hosts the traditional winter jazz music festival. An opportunity to appreciate jazz artists and musicians from all over the world and who perform in numerous concerts in the enchanting scenery of the Umbrian town.
The concerts are held in beautiful historic buildings in the center and there are also numerous parallel events, street performances and much more.

RIMINI – Cribs of Sand from 8 th December to 13 th January (Emilia Romagna)

The beaches of Rimini and Torre Pedrera are home to amazingly beautiful creations of sand.
Representations that will depict human-sized characters, images and evocative landscapes of tradition that will amaze you.

ALBEROBELLO – Alberobello Light Christmas from 8th December to 6 th January (Apulia)

Christmas lights light up on the trulli of Alberobello: on the occasion of the Christmas festivities decorations, concerts, street artists and lots of lights will make the magical atmosphere in the village truly magical.
During this period there will then be the classic Christmas markets, exhibitions, concerts, nativity scenes and street entertainment.

MODICA – Chocomodica at the beginning of December (Sicily)

Modica chocolate is famous all over the world. To celebrate and tell the story, the goodness, the authenticity of this treasure, ancient and ever new, Modica transforms its spaces and makes them even sweeter, aggregating people, dialoguing with historians and experts, having fun getting their hands dirty (cocoa), along with all the greedy and curious of good things of centuries-old tradition. And to make this holiday – full of conferences, workshops, presentations, games, workshops, events, shows, demonstrations, entertainment – the fact that tourists and residents, tasters and producers take to the streets to take part of the same game: a sort of treasure hunt where history wins.