Palio di Siena – Palio dell'Assunta, Program & Visitor Guide
The Palio dell'Assunta on 16 August 2026 at Piazza del Campo, Siena is the world's most famous horse race. Ten contrade battle for glory in under 90 seconds. Entry to the central standing area is free; tribune seats range from €350 to €700.
South Tyrolean Knights' Festival 2026 – Schluderns, Program & Tickets
From 21 to 23 August 2026, Schluderns in South Tyrol hosts the Knights' Festival for the 19th time. Enjoy jousting tournaments, the Battle of Calven re-enactment, a medieval market and 2,000 performers from 11 countries. Tickets from €9.
Venice Film Festival 2026 – Program, Tickets & Visitor Guide
The 83rd Venice International Film Festival runs September 2–12, 2026 on the Lido di Venezia. World premieres, the legendary red carpet and public screenings from €12 at the world's oldest film festival, with Maggie Gyllenhaal as jury president.
Giostra del Saracino Arezzo – 150th Edition September 2026
On 6 September 2026, Arezzo's <strong>Piazza Grande</strong> hosts the <strong>150th edition of the Giostra del Saracino</strong>. This medieval jousting tournament, complete with a 300-person historic procession, is one of Italy's most spectacular and authentic historical events.
Festival del Peperoncino Diamante 2026 – Calabria's Famous Chilli Festival
The Festival del Peperoncino returns to Diamante, Calabria from 9 to 13 September 2026 for its 34th edition. Five days of tastings, concerts, culture and the legendary Italian chilli eating championship – all free of charge.
Detour Discotheque Matera 2026 – La Dolce Vita Disco Part II
Detour Discotheque returns to southern Italy from 11 to 13 September 2026, taking over a 16th-century UNESCO-listed convent in Matera for an intimate weekend of retro disco, silent dancing, sunset aperitivo and cultural exploration. Just 300 tickets available.
Palio della Tonna Civita di Bagnoregio – Donkey Race in the Dying Town
On 13 September 2026, the Piazza San Donato of Civita di Bagnoregio hosts the ancient Palio della Tonna donkey race. Four contrade compete for the coveted banner in one of Lazio's most unique medieval villages, accessible only by footbridge. Village entry €5.
Festa di San Gennaro Naples – The Blood Miracle of Naples
On 19 September 2026, Naples honours its patron saint San Gennaro with the world-famous blood miracle at the Duomo di Napoli. Experience solemn processions, the liquefaction ceremony and vibrant street festivities throughout the historic city centre.
Marino Grape Festival 2026 – Sagra dell'Uva, Wine Fountains & Guide
On 4 October 2026, the fountains of Marino near Rome flow with local wine instead of water. The Sagra dell'Uva is one of Italy's oldest harvest festivals, celebrating the grape harvest and the Battle of Lepanto with historical parades, music and free entry.
Alba White Truffle Fair 2026 – Fiera del Tartufo Bianco, Program & Guide
The 96th International Alba White Truffle Fair runs every Saturday and Sunday from 10 October to 6 December 2026 in the heart of medieval Alba, Piedmont. Discover the world-famous Truffle World Market, cooking shows by celebrated chefs, the traditional Palio degli Asini donkey race and the exclusive international charity truffle auction.
Palio del Boscaiolo 2026 – The Lumberjack Challenge in Vivo d'Orcia
On 18 and 25 October 2026, the Tuscan mountain village of Vivo d'Orcia hosts the unique Palio del Boscaiolo. Two rival districts compete in a traditional lumberjack contest surrounded by mushroom dishes, roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Free entry.
San Miniato White Truffle Fair November 2026 – Program, Tickets & Guide
The 55th National White Truffle Fair in San Miniato takes place on 14/15, 21/22 and 28/29 November 2026. Three weekends of white truffles, star chef shows, wine tastings and Tuscan atmosphere around Piazza del Duomo. Free entry.