Event Details
What is the Palio del Boscaiolo?
The Palio del Boscaiolo is one of the most original and unique folk events in Tuscany. In the small mountain village of Vivo d'Orcia, perched at around 870 metres above sea level on the slopes of Monte Amiata, the two districts of the village compete each October in a spectacular lumberjack contest. The event celebrates the centuries-old heritage of the woodcutters who shaped the economy of this mountain region for generations.
Highlights
- Traditional lumberjack contest between the rival districts Caselle and Pian delle Mura
- Part of the Sagra del Fungo e della Castagna (Mushroom and Chestnut Festival)
- Authentic atmosphere in the medieval Borgo dell'Eremo
- Food stalls with porcini dishes, roasted chestnuts and warm mulled wine
- Mycological exhibition of local mushroom varieties
- Guided hikes through the autumn chestnut forests
- Historical re-enactments and folk music
Program 2026
The Sagra del Fungo e della Castagna takes place across two Sundays: 18 October 2026 (first day) and 25 October 2026 (second and final day). The Palio del Boscaiolo traditionally takes place on the Sunday afternoon of the third October weekend, on 25 October 2026 from approximately 4:00 PM. Food stands open from 12:00 PM on both days.
The Contest: How Does the Palio Work?
The village of Vivo d'Orcia is divided into two rioni: the Caselle (the lower part of the village) and the Pian delle Mura (the upper part). Each team consists of six participants. Using a traditional hand saw (segone), each team must cut a log of approximately 60 cm diameter into six pieces to produce six chairs, and a second log of about 25 cm diameter to produce six bowls. The bowls are then filled with chestnut polenta, which is simultaneously prepared by the remaining team members during the contest. Winners are determined by speed and precision.
The Festival: Sagra del Fungo e della Castagna
Surrounding the Palio is the traditional Sagra del Fungo e della Castagna, organised by the Pro Loco Vivo d'Orcia. In covered, heated rooms and open-air stands, visitors can enjoy typical autumn specialities: porcini polenta, porcini lasagne, fried and grilled mushrooms, castagnaccio, chestnut mousse, fresh roasted chestnuts and vin brulé. The programme also includes a mycological exhibition, guided forest walks and historical re-enactments.
Visitor Tips
- Vivo d'Orcia sits at 870 m altitude; bring a warm jacket and sturdy shoes for October.
- The village is small; arrive early to find parking near the festival grounds.
- For the Palio contest around 4:00 PM, secure a good spot in the Borgo dell'Eremo early.
- Table reservations at the Sagra restaurant are recommended; contact Pro Loco Vivo d'Orcia: Tel. 0577-873646 or prolocovivo(at)libero.it.
- Entry to both the Sagra and the Palio is free of charge; visitors pay only for food and drinks.
