Travelers can enjoy a plethora of colorful festivals throughout Italy, such as the February Venetian Carnival and the June Calcio Fiorentino. For those seeking something different, there’s a wealth of unusual celebrations just off the beaten path.
Sagra del Pesce Spada (Swordfish Festival), Messina, Sicily (August)
This lively festival celebrates the region’s culinary treasure, swordfish. You can sample delectable swordfish dishes in all their variations, from simple grills to extravagant stews. There’s also the chance to eat other delicacies alongside local wines and folk-inspired entertainment that is common in Sicily.
Palio dei Asini (Donkey Palio), Asti, Piedmont (September)
Tourists can experience a light-hearted twist on the traditional Palio horse races at Palio dei Asini in Piedmont. Jockeys compete in a bareback donkey race which is usually as chaotic as it sounds. Italians love a bit of humor and you can join in watching this spectacle that’s deeply rooted in local tradition.
Festa del Vino (Wine Festival), Montepulciano, Tuscany (September)
Wine lovers won’t want to miss this celebration of Montepulciano’s prized DOCG wine. Sample vintage Tuscan wines alongside local food specialties, such as pecorino cheese and wild boar ragu, and attend wine tastings where you can soak in the festive atmosphere while ordering wine to ship home.
Festa a lume di candela (Candlelit Night Festival), Tropea, Calabria (September)
Step back in time as Tropea transforms into a magical wonderland illuminated solely by candlelight. Tourists can explore the historical center adorned with flickering flames, enjoy live music and savor the delights of traditional Calabrian cuisine, including their famous spicy nduja sausage.
Festa del Torrone (Nougat Festival), Cremona, Lombardy (November)
For those of you with a sweet tooth, indulge yourself at the celebration of Cremona’s renowned torrone (nougat). Visitors can sample an incredible variety of flavors, witness traditional nougat-making demonstrations and participate in cooking workshops.
Festa di Santa Lucia (Saint Lucy’s Feast), Syracuse, Sicily (December)
This atmospheric festival honors Saint Lucy, the patron saint of sight. Festival goers can witness a spectacular procession of baroque lanterns illuminating the streets, and enjoy traditional foods like ‘cuccìa,’ a sweet wheat berry pudding with ricotta cheese.
Festa del Radicchio (Radicchio Festival), Treviso, Veneto (December)
Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of Treviso’s star ingredient, radicchio, a bitter red chicory with a unique taste. As well as being able to sample radicchio dishes from local producers you can take in the Christmas market filled with local specialties, including pandoro and tiramisu, and witness traditional folk performances.
Carnevale di Ivrea (Ivrea Carnival), Ivrea, Piedmont (February)
This Ivrea carnival is an experience unlike no other as attendees throw oranges instead of confetti. Reenacting a rebellion against a tyrannical ruler, the Marquis of Monferrato, costumed participants pelt each other with citrus fruits in a chaotic yet exciting celebration.
Gioco del Ponte (Bridge Game), Pisa, Tuscany (July)
If you want to witness an historic tug-of-war competition between the two sides of the Arno River, head to Pisa this summer. Elaborately costumed teams battle it out for bragging rights in this thrilling display of local pride.
Festa del Barolo (Barolo Wine Festival), Barolo, Piedmont (September)
Another worthwhile festival of wine is Piedmont’s Barolo festival. Barolo wines take center stage at this prestigious festival as visitors explore cellars, attend exclusive tastings and participate in workshops to get to know the ins and outs of this king of Italian wines.
Sagra della Castagna (Chestnut Festival), Various Locations (October)
As autumn leaves the hillsides golden brown, chestnut festivals take place across Italy to celebrate the arrival of autumn. You can eat freshly roasted chestnuts, try savory chestnut dishes and sweet chestnut desserts as you celebrate local music and traditions.
Scoppio del Carro (Explosion of the Cart), Florence, Tuscany (September)
The explosion of the cart sees guests witness a historical spectacle on the eve of the Feast of Saint John the Baptist. An elaborately decorated cart filled with fireworks explodes in a stunning display of light and sound, a tradition dating back to the 15th century.
Festa del Barlafam (Festival of the Upside Down), Lucera, Puglia (December)
The Festival of the Upside Down has nothing to do with stranger things but is a quirky festival that flips the script with houses decorated upside down and meals served in reverse order. You can enjoy the playful chaos and embrace the spirit of ‘barlafam’ (topsy-turvy) while on vacation in Italy.
Fiera del Internazionale del Tartufo Bianco (International White Truffle Fair), Alba, Piedmont (November)
Renowned for its prized white truffles, Alba transforms into a truffle paradise during this month-long event, attracting food enthusiasts and truffle hunters from around the world. You can look forward to fairground rides, cooking demonstrations, truffle sampling and market stalls selling all things truffle.
The 10 Most Reliable Car Brands According to Mechanics
When choosing a car, one of the most crucial factors is reliability. But what exactly does it mean when we say a car is reliable? Reliability refers to the vehicle’s ability to perform consistently well over time with minimal issues. A reliable car requires fewer repairs, is cost-effective to maintain, and offers peace of mind to the owner. In this article, we delve into the ten most reliable car brands according to mechanics, explaining why these brands are trusted and highlighting endorsements from institutions, car experts, and reputable websites. The 10 Most Reliable Car Brands According to Mechanics
