Italy’s calendar of events is always action-packed and 2024 is no exception. It would be impossible to create a list of every single event in Italy in 2024 – there are just too many to share them all. But, here’s a list of our must-see events in Italy in 2024 – month by month from January to June. From opera to marathons, we hope we’ve included something for everyone.
January 2024 events in Italy
Epiphany
On January 6th, across Italy and in much of Europe, Epiphany is celebrated. This is officially the 12th day of Christmas and marks the presentation of the baby Jesus to the Three Wise Men. More unique to Italy, this is also the day on which children celebrate the arrival of Befana. According to Italian folklore, on the eve of Epiphany, Befana is an old lady who travels around on a broomstick delivering gifts to children and filling their stockings with toys and sweets.
More so than anywhere else, Befana is brought to life in the city of Venice. Here, at 11 o’clock in the morning on 6th January, a race begins at the Palazzo Balbi. Members of the oldest rowing association in the city – the Bucintoro – dress up as maranteghe (befane) and compete to be the first to reach the race finishing line at the Rialto Bridge.
Festivities are far from confined to Venice. However, in Rome events have a more religious focus. Here, preceding a special mass led by the Pope at St Peter’s to mark Epiphany, there is a procession along the Via delle Consolazioni, with hundreds of people dressed in Medieval costumes carrying symbolic gifts for the pontiff. Similarly, in Florence there is a procession from the Palazzo Pitti to the Duomo. Across Italy, in small towns, many churches will perform living nativities to mark the day, which can be fascinating for all the family.
February 2024 events in Italy
Carnevale
February is carnival season in Italy, and arguably is the pinnacle of events in Italy in 2024. There are so many carnivals throughout the country, however, the main events are the Carnevale di Viargeggio (this year being held on the 3rd , 8th, 11th 13st, 18th, and 24th February) along with the Carnevale in Venice from 3rd-13th February. One of the oldest carnivals in Italy though is that in Putignano in Puglia which is believed to have been running since 1394.
Carnevale in Venice is steeped in history. In fact, it dates back to 1162 when Venetians took to the streets to celebrate the victory of the Republic of Venice over Aquileia. Every year since, Venetians have marked the victory with celebrations on its world-famous streets and waterways. However, in 1797 the event was outlawed by Francis II, the Holy Roman Emperor, as were the masks that were worn by citizens to disguise their identities. Other than brief moments of revival in the 19th century, it wasn’t until 1979 that the Venice Carnival started to resemble how it looks today. This was the moment the the Italian government decided to use this historic event to rejuvenate Venice’s heritage. Since then, the event has grown and grown and today it’s one of the biggest celebrations anywhere in the world.
In Viareggio, visitors are treated to a bright and colourful parade of floats, featuring people in spectacular masks and costumes. Very often these are caricatures of actors, politicians and sportsmen and women. The Viareggio carnival began in 1873, and was organised by the wealthy middle class to parade floats adorned with fresh flowers. Many local citizens protested and donned masks to show their disgust at the high taxes that they were being forced to pay.
Whilst the carnivals in Viareggio and Venice are the most famous in Italy, we also have rather a soft spot for the Ivrea Carnevale which will be taking place from 10-13 February 2024.
During February or March, the town of Ivrea hosts a 3 day festival. We think that this has to be Italy’s messiest festival and also one of the most sweet-smelling events in Italy in 2024. It involves festival-goers literally pelting each other with oranges as they process through the streets in a shower of freshly smashed orange juice!
The festival’s origins are found in the Middle Ages and commemorate the defiance of the city against a tyrannical member of the Ranieri family. So the story goes, this tyrant tried to rape a young miller’s daughter on the eve of her wedding, exercising the droit du seigneur. The good news is that, if the story is to be believed, the girl had the last laugh, decapitating the tyrant and triggering a riot through the streets during which the palace was stormed and burned!
Every year, a young girl is chosen to play the part of the miller’s daughter, Violetta, whilst aranceri (orange handlers) teams on foot pelt teams of aranceri riding in carts with oranges. Those on foot represent the commoners whereas those in carts are the tyrants. In total, there are nine combat teams and you must pay an entrance fee if you decide to take part. This is serious stuff – you’ll be kitted out with a helmet for protection – but with over 400 tons of oranges thrown each day, you’ll be sure to be grateful for it!
Festa di Sant’ Agata
In Sicily, a very important religious event takes place in Catania – the Festa di Sant’ Agata. In 2024, it will be held between 3 and 5 February. It celebrates the life and martyrdom of the city’s patron saint Agatha who is believed to protect the citizens of Catania from the mighty power of Mount Etna.
Events begin with a procession at midday on the 3rd when eleven large candles (cannalori) are carried from the Church of Sant’ Agata alla Fornace to the Cathedral of St Agatha. At 3 pm, follows a race through the streets of the town and then a concert and fireworks in the evening. The following morning, there is the Messa dell’ Aurora (Mass at Dawn) and another procession during which a reliquary bust of St Agatha is placed on the top of a silver carriage and paraded through the streets of Catania. The most devoted followers of the saint wear white tunics tied at the waist with a rope. These celebrations continue into the night and on the final day, there is yet another procession after mass
Festival de Sanremo
The 74th Italian Song Festival, also known as the Sanremo Festival takes place in the Liguria Region from 6 – 10 February. If you can’t make it in person, the annual event is broadcast live on RaiPlay and also on Radio 2.
Milan Fashion Week
Held twice a year, with upcoming autumn/winter fashion showcased during February or March, Italy’s style capital hosts one of the greatest events in the fashion calendar. This year, it takes place from 20 – 26 February 2024 in and around Piazza Duomo, where you will be able to enjoy more than 100 designer shows.
El Greco Exhibition
Witness the brilliance of El Greco’s artwork in Milan at Palazzo Reale. Dive into the unique style and emotional depth of this influential painter. This exhibition runs until 11 February and is a must-see art event in Italy in 2024.
March 2024 events in Italy
Goya Exhibition
Continuing the artistic theme, explore the Goya exhibition at Palazzo Reale in Milan, until 3 March. Delve into the captivating works of Francisco Goya, a master of the Romantic era.
Celebration of the Ides of March
March 15th is the celebration of the anniversary of the death of Julius Caesar. A fascinating reenactment of events in the Largo di Torre Argentina in the very heart of the city of Rome marks it. Visitors can watch as citizens act out the part of the Senators plotting the assassination, as Ceasar is warned of what awaits and of Marc Anthony being distracted. You can also witness Caesar being stabbed 23 times and falling to the floor dead. An actor then plays the part of Marc Anthony and performs Shakespeare’s famous lines, ‘Friends, Romans, Countrymen…’ in Italian. Events then culminate in a funeral procession to the Roman Forum and the Temple Divus Julius.
Rome Marathon
Also in Rome on 17 March 2024, you will find the Rome Marathon. If you’re a keen runner, then routes don’t get much more spectacular than this. The 42 km route takes you past some spectacular historic monuments including the Colosseum, and St Peter’s Square. It’s also fairly flat but runners should be aware of the long stretch of cobbles which can be tricky underfoot. Certainly one of the most strenuous of our recommended events in Italy in 2024!
Palio dei Somari
Whilst this palio may not be Italy’s most famous event, we think it’s certainly one of its most entertaining. It takes place in Torrita di Siena in Tuscany and is a race between jockeys on donkeys rather than horses! It is always held on the first Sunday after 19 March, this year 24 March. The eight districts of the town – Porta a Pago, Porta a Sole, Porta Gavina, Porta Nova, Cavone, Le Fonti, Refenero and Stazione – compete in the race with the first over the finishing line claiming victory. The race has been held annually since 1966 when the 7000 residents of the town decided they wanted to do something to commemorate St Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters and workers. Like the main palio in Siena, the event is also preceded by an impressive parade that includes dozens of flag throwers.
Eurochocolate
Perugia will host a week-long celebration of chocolate between 15 – 24 March 2024. The capital of Umbria is well known for its chocolates, thanks to being the HQ for the Perugina company. Eurochocolate was historically an Autumn festival however its huge success has led to it now also being held in the Spring. (Eurochocolate will also take place from 18-27 October 2024.
World Championship of Genoese Pesto
Another one of our favourite events in Italy is back for 2024. On 23 March, the World Championship of Genoese Pesto with Mortar is set to make a triumphant return to Genoa after a four-year hiatus imposed by the pandemic. Prepare to witness the culinary prowess of 100 competitors from all around the globe as they go head-to-head, using pestles and mortars to create Genoese pesto according to traditional methods and with only authentic ingredients. A panel of gastronomes and expert tasters will then identify the top 10 finalists, who will compete in the final round in the afternoon. The winner will be awarded the prestigious “Pestello d’Oro,” an olive wood pestle with a handle wrapped in gold. Could this be the most coveted prize in Italy?
Easter 2024 events in Italy
Easter Sunday 2024 falls in the month of March but celebrations will continue into 1 April (Easter Monday) and, not surprisingly this brings about a number of events in Italy in 2024 which are well worth seeing.
Good Friday Processions
Nearly 80% of Italians are Roman Catholic so it’s no surprise that there are a number of important events around Easter time. On Good Friday (Venerdi Santo), the mood in Italy can actually often be quite sombre, with many churches cloaking statues in black or dark red covers. Many churches will have statues of both Jesus and the Virgin Mary which they parade through the streets, whilst participants very often dress in ancient costumes carrying olive branches or palm fronds.
There are processions all over Italy but the largest and perhaps most famous of these is the Way of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa in Rome. Tens of thousands of Christians travel from all parts of the world to Rome to participate in a torchlit procession led by the Pope. Smaller but equally beautiful torchlit processions take place in towns such as Orvieto and Assisi in Umbria. Here, the Processione del Cristo Morto sees a procession of barefooted and hooded penitents make their way through the torch-lit Medieval streets.
There are several other major events in Italy including a number of processions in Sicily which tend to be the most dramatic of any across the country. Included in these are the Good Friday procession – Misteri di Trapani – in Trapani, which lasts a whole day. Alternatively, head to Enna where you will find around 2000 friars making their way through the city streets accompanied by the sombre music of a marching band. It’s also worth noting that events in Sardinia tend to be equally dramatic.
Easter Sunday Celebrations
Following the sombre tone of Good Friday, on Easter Sunday events in Italy are much more celebratory affairs. Florence hosts the most impressive Easter Sunday celebrations. In Tuscany’s famed capital, you will find the Scoppio del Carro.
Dating back to the First Crusade, this tradition sees an 18th Century cart being pulled to the Piazza del Duomo by a pair of oxen whilst simultaneously being accompanied by flag throwers and drummers. When they have arrived at the cathedral square, from the safety of the cathedral altar, the Archbishop lights the fuse of a dove-shaped rocket which flies down a wire to the cart outside, setting off a spectacular display of fireworks. The procession begins early and the fireworks are released at 11am. Be sure to arrive early to get a place.
Another notable event in Italy in 2024 at this time of year can be found in the Abruzzo region of Italy. Here, Easter Sunday is celebrated with the Madonna che Scappa in Piazza. Participants dress in green and white, the colours of peace, hope and resurrection. A woman plays the role of the Virgin Mary and is cloaked solely in black however, as she moves towards the central fountain in the main square, doves are released and she is miraculously and suddenly dressed in green.
Easter Monday celebrations
Religious celebrations continue into Easter Monday (La Pasquetta) with many towns and cities celebrating with concerts. However one of the most unusual celebrations is in Panicale in Umbria; the annual Ruzzolone. It is claimed that this cheese rolling competition has its origins in Etruscan times and is more than 3000 years old. Competitors (giocattori) attach a leather strap with a wooden handle to a 4kg round of pecorino cheese which they must then wheel through the streets of Panicale. Every time the cheese stops, the place is marked with chalk. The winner is the person who finishes the course with the least number of ‘strokes’. The prize? The winner gets to take the winning piece of cheese home with them!
April 2024 events in Italy
VinItaly
VinItaly is an internationally acclaimed wine competition and exposition which has been taking place annually since 1967 in the city of Verona. Today, it’s the largest wine show in the world and in 2024, it will take place between 14 and 17 April.
An event held exclusively for wine professionals, it features an average of 3000 wines from dozens of countries across the world. Wineries will use the event to launch new wines and wine styles.
Milan Design Week
Once again, in 2024, Milano the Capital of Design steps into the spotlight of the world of creativity and design with Milano Design Week and the Salone del Mobile. Find the event from 16th to 21st April at Rho Fiera and throughout the liveliest city districts.
Natale di Roma
The Natale di Roma is Rome’s birthday and is celebrated annually on 21 April. Legend has it that this was the day on which Rome was founded by Romulus after the defeat of his brother Remus. This day of celebration is filled with historical parades on the Via dei Fori Imperiali as well as reenactments and fireworks into the night.
Earth Day Italia
Earth Day is celebrated across the world to increase engagement globally in a sustainable future for our earth. Over 600 events are held across Italy with the 2024 focus being People Vs Plastics. The main events will be held at Villaggio per la Terra in Rome where even the Pope is known to join the community to help the fight for a greener future. In 2024 Earth Day will be celebrated on 22 April.
Liberation Day
Since 1946, 25 April has marked Italian Liberation Day and is a chance for Italians to reflect on the events and Nazi occupation of WWII along with celebrating the freedom gained by their defeat and the fall of fascism. April 25th was chosen as the date to mark this event since it was the day when the Northern industrial cities of Turin and Milan were liberated. Expectedly, this is a sombre day for Italians. Commemorative ceremonies are held at the Quirinale Palace in Rome, where wreaths are laid by the President and others at the Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland). While this may not be the most jovial of events in Italy in 2024, its historical significance is felt across the country and is worth observing.
Festa di San Marco
25 April is also the date that the Venetians celebrate the Festa di San Marco, the patron saint of Venice. According to tradition, the men of Venice will honour their loved ones on this day by giving them a rosebud (bocolo). This is a nod to the legend about the tragic love of the humble troubadour Tancredi and the Doge’s daughter, Maria. Also on this day, the Regata dei Traghetti takes place. This is a boat race between gondoliers, who compete whilst having passengers on board! For a good veiw of the spectacle, find a spot along the shore between St Mark’s Square and the Viale Giardini Pubblici.
Artichoke Festival
On 25 April each year, in Chiusure near Pienza in Tuscany, an Artichoke Festival takes place. During this time, the town is filled with people celebrating the humble artichoke grown in this area of Italy – forming part of a series of events called Sapori delle Crete. Ramacca in Sicily also holds an artichoke festival at a similar time, celebrating the violet artichoke (Violetto Ramacchese) which has been grown around this village in Catania for centuries. Here too, there are plenty of tastings and live music to enjoy.
May 2024 events in Italy
Festa de Lavori (Labour Day)
More than 80 countries around the world mark 1st May as International Labour Day or Workers Day. The largest celebration in Italy can be found in the capital – Rome. Here, the annual 1st May concert (Concerto del Primo Maggio) – is attended by around half a million people and is also televised live for all to enjoy.
FIDIA, GREATEST GREEK SCULPTOR
Explore the works of Fidia, the renowned Greek sculptor, at Musei Capitolini in Rome, until 5 May. Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and classical mastery of his sculptures.
Calendimaggio
Always held across the first Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday in May (although it will be between 8-11 May in 2024), Calendimaggio sees the two historical rival camps of Assisi battle it out in a Medieval themed celebration of the arrival of Spring! The Parte de Sopra are the upper parts of the town and this is where the nobles of the city are represented. The Parte de Sotto is the lower neighbourhood of Assisi representing the simpler, lower classes. These two rival camps compete in several games, songs and plays, all done in Medieval costumes. A carefully selected jury (which includes a historian, musicologist and entertainment personality) chooses the winner of each contest. On the final evening, the Madonna Primavera is elected.
Festival of the Snakes
Italy’s infamous Festival of the Snakes – is held on the first Thursday in May in the small town of Cocullo in Abruzzo. It commemorates the legend that in the 11th century, the town’s patron saint, San Domenico di Sora, helped the town’s farmers by rendering all the poisonous snakes in the area harmless. Before the festival, snake catchers and charmers – serpari – go out and catch harmless snakes which they then hand out to worshippers. As the statue of the Saint is carried through the streets of Cocullo, it is draped with hundreds of these live snakes. So many are added that the statue is almost hidden beneath a sea of the slippery creatures. The procession is accompanied by live music and many participants wear traditional costumes, handing out sweets and snake-shaped bread to those enjoying the show.
Giro d’Italia
Italy’s number one cycling event is now arguably one of the most popular muti-stage races in the world. In 2024, the event begins in Turin on 4 May and ends with a circuit stage around Rome’s iconic Colosseum on 26 May. In between, you can catch the racers tackling Italy’s varied and challenging terrain in a route which covers almost the entire length of the country, from Pompeii in the south to the alpine reaches of Livigno in the north.
Festa della Sensa
The Festa della Sensa or Ascension of Christ is a spectacular annual event in Venice which this year will be held on the weekend of 12 May 2024.
It commemorates two key events in the history of the city. The first is 9 May 1000 AD when Doge Pietro II Orseolo rescued the Dalmatians from the Slavs. The second was the later events of 1177 AD when Doge Sebastiano Ziani, Pope Alexander III and Frederick Barbarossa agreed the Treaty of Venice ended the war between the Papacy and the Holy Roman Empire.
Every year since then the Doge would sail on the state barge – the Bucintoro – to San Pietro di Castello at St Elena where the Bishop of Venice would be waiting aboard a gilt-edged boat to bless him, after which the Doge would throw a gold ring into the water of the lagoon.
These days, the day is marked with a parade of colourful, traditional rowing boats on the water. The Serenissima – a boat carrying the mayor and other dignitaries – leads the way. And still today, a ring is launched into the water followed by a religious ceremony at the Church of San Nicolo on the Venice Lido. Events also include a Venetian rowing competition.
Festa dei Ceri
This annual event in the city of Gubbio will be held on 15 May 2024 and involves a traditional ‘ceri’ race in the late afternoon. ‘Ceri’ are wooden candles, 5 metres high weighing a staggering 300 to 400 kg. They’re carried vertically by their bearers – the ‘Ceraioli’. The weight of them means that each Ceraioli is only permitted to carry the structure for a distance of 70 metres.
Each candle is mounted with a statue of either Saint Ubaldo (yellow), Saint Giorgio (blue) or Saint Antonio Abate (black). Supporters of each Ceraioli will dress in the colours of their candle.
On the morning of the festival, a Ceraioli is nominated to lead the three relay teams who are tasked with transporting these wooden candles through Gubbio and uphill to the Basilica of St. Ubaldo, located on the top of Mount Ingino. Although it’s called a race, the participants must remain in their starting order throughout – with the best Ceraioli chosen by Gubbio’s inhabitants.
Infiorata
Also held on the 9th Sunday after Easter is the Infiorata. This takes place in many towns around Italy but the three most spectacular and important are in Spello (Umbria), Noto (Sicily) and Genzano (Lazio).
In Spello, the event dates as far back as 1831, commemorating the Corpus Domini feast. Whilst Spello seems to be filled with flowers all year round, during the Infiorata, the town’s streets are literally paved with over sixty large flower murals. All constructed using flower petals, these carpet Spello’s narrow pavements and roads. The Infiorata in Genzano dates even further back to 1778. Here, fifteen flower panels are created using half a million flowers and seeds. The one in Noto has much more modern beginnings and only started in 1980. Here, the Via Corrado Nicolaci (122 metres long and 7 metres wide) is divided up into 16 sections, each 6 metres by 4 metres and each one becomes a canvas for artists to create their incredible pictures using flowers, all linked via a common theme. In 2024, the Infiorata will be held between 18 and 19 May in Spello and 17-24 May in Noto so you could treat yourself and do both!
Venice Biennale
The Venice Art Biennale runs from April to November every other year. It alternates between art and architectural exhibitions, all working to one overarching theme. The event was founded in 1893 and these days, it showcases a selection of modern art from artists around the world. This year’s theme is ‘Foreigners Everywhere’ and is sure to be a spectacular display of international modern art.
Sagra dei Limoni
The Sagra dei Limoni in Monterosso in the Cinque Terre is always held on the third Saturday of May. The village is filled with the scent of lemons and there are ample opportunities to taste them in dozens of different food and drinks including lemon marmalade, torta al limone and limoncino.
Feast of San Giorgio
The Feast of San Giorgio is definitely in the running for Italy’s most loud and colourful festival. It is held on the last Friday, Saturday and Sunday in May, in Ragusa Ibla, a hilltop city in the south east of Sicily. Events span over three days, the highlight of which is a procession through the streets of Ragusa during which residents carry a statue of San Giorgio (St George) aloft along with a huge silver casket containing his relics. To add to this most atmospheric occasion, all this is accompanied by a backdrop of booming cannons, ringing church bells and the sound of military bands playing. When the statue is carried up the steps of the Duomo and returned to its normal position, fireworks light the night sky to mark the moment and the statue is laid to rest for another year.
Festa delle Madonna delle Milizie
The Feast of the Madonna delle Milizie is celebrated on the last Saturday of May in Scicli, Sicily. Held annually, this event commemorates the attempted Turkish invasion and its successful defence by the Normans, who were spectacularly saved by a sword-wielding Madonna! Local actors recount the deeds of the Madonna for all to see in the main Piazza Italia. When evening falls, the sound of drums introduces the beginning of the reenactment of the battle and the arrival of the Madonna delle Milizie. A fantastic show of fireworks round off the evening as the Turks escape into the night on their boats!
FOCACCIA FESTIVAL OF RECCO
On 26 May 2024, join the celebration of the iconic gastronomic symbol of Recco at the Focaccia Festival. Established in 1955 this event pays homage to the beloved focaccia. Experience the culinary tradition with the free distribution of both classic and onion-flavoured focaccia in the morning, followed by the afternoon delight of Focaccia di Recco with IGP cheese. This is a fabulous way to immerse yourself in the flavours of this cherished gastronomic heritage.
Vogalonga Regatta
28 May 2023 brings one more regatta to Venice. The Vogalonga Regatta is a non-competitive event between rowers – designed as a peaceful protest at the damage being caused to the city by cruise liners, motor boats and the degeneration of the lagoon.
La Pioggia di Petali di Rose
Pentecost (19 May 2024), the seventh Sunday after Easter Sunday, sees the rose petal drop from the open oculus in the ceiling of the Pantheon in Rome. This is the day when it is said that the Holy Spirit comes down to earth.
The event takes place after Mass has been held. It is a free event but if you want to have a chance of attending, you will need to start queuing hours before.
Cantine Aperte
On the last weekend in May, Cantine Aperte takes place in Italy. Translated literally, this is ‘Open Cellars’. The event was founded in the 1990s and has grown ever since. These days, nearly 1000 winemakers across Italy fling open their doors for wine enthusiasts to sample their wine. It’s also a chance to learn more about the wine-making process and food pairings since many wineries will also provide the opportunity to taste some local food specialities.
June 2024 events in Italy
Verona Opera season
Verona Opera Season runs between June and August each year and 2024 marks the 111th edition of this world-renowned event. In the beautiful setting of the Arena di Verona, the Roman amphitheatre that dominates the city’s Piazza Bra, a series of performances can be found. The festival was held for the first time in 1913 and these days it attracts hundreds of thousands of people each year.
Anniversary of the Republic
In Italy, 2 June marks the Anniversary of the Republic. In 1946, this was the day when more than 12 million Italians voted to abolish the monarchy and opted to form a republic. Celebrations take place across the country but the place to be is in Rome. Here in the capital, the President lays a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland), before a military parade marches its way down the Via dei Fiori Imperiali. Events culminate in a spectacularly impressive flyover by the Frecce Tricolori (Italy’s version of the British Red Arrows) sending feather-like streaks of red, white and green into the sky behind them.
Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics
This is an annual event held between the crews of the four ancient maritime republics – Amalfi, Genoa, Pisa and Venice. It is held in a different city each year. In 2021 Genoa was the host. In 2022, it was in Amalfi and in 2023 it was held in Venice. The location for 2024 is yet to be announced.
The event traditionally starts with a parade and the lighting of a bonfire before the 4 crews of 8 rowers and a helmsman compete in a 2000 meter race. thanks to beautifully sculpted figureheads at the prow of each boat, it’s easy to spot one crew from another. The Amalfi boat is represented by a winged horse, Venice by a lion, Genoa by a winged dragon and Pisa by an eagle. The event has been running since 1956 and is a great way to connect with Italy’s maritime history and traditions.
Corpus Domini
11 June marks Corpus Domini when festivals will take place all across Italy. The biggest of these are in Rome, Orvieto and Castelrotto.
The UEFA European Football Championship
Strictly speaking, this event is not being held in Italy in 2024. However, if you’ve ever had the pleasure of a trip to Italy during any international football competition you will know that will be embraced as if every town, city and village in the country is the host! Italy are the current holders of this cup, which is the biggest international football competition in Europe. I’m sure the defence of their title will be met with all kinds of celebrations, as fans take to bars and piazzas to watch their beloved team play their national sport. It’s best to embrace this and accept that service in restaurants might be a bit slow, especially during a big match – the chef is probably watching the game too! The event kicks off on 14 June with the final taking place on 14 July. Forza Azzurri!
Giostra della Quintana
On 15 and 16 June 2024, the Giostra della Quintana will take place in Foligno, Umbria. This is the first of two challenges that take place during the course of the year, the other will be held in September. The event places ten city districts against one another in a bid to be crowned jousting champion. What makes this event a bit different, is that contestants don’t battle each other and instead must spear a gold ring from the outstretched wooden arm of the ancient Roman god of war. The winner is the knight who spears three gold rings and completes the course in the quickest time whilst incurring the fewest penalties.
Also during this course of the same weekend, a parade with over 800 characters dressed in baroque attire takes place, transforming Foligno as its history is brought to life.
Feast of San Ranieri
The Feast of San Ranieri is a beautiful spectacle that takes place on the River Arno in Pisa. It takes place on the evening of 16 June each year, the eve of the city’s patron saint’s day. The event’s origins go as far back as 1688 when the urn containing the ashes of Saint Ranieri was placed in the Cappella dell’ Incoronata in the Pisa cathedral. Cosimo di Medici III wanted to create a sumptuous event to mark the occasion and the Luminara was born. These days, the electric lights are turned off and instead over 70,000 lumini (candles placed inside containers) are floated along the River Arno as well as being placed in the windows of buildings around the city. Around 11 pm, fireworks are launched from the Cittadella Vecchia as well as from floating platforms on the river.
On the afternoon of 17 June, the Regatta of San Ranieri then takes place, commemorating the 1571 Battle of Lepanto. Four teams representing the four districts of Pisa – St Francesco, St Martino, St Antonio and St Maria – compete in a 1.5 km rowing race along the River Arno from the Railway Bridge to the Medici Palace near the Fortezza Bridge. Eight rowers are in each boat along with a helmsman and a climber. The latter has a crucial role to play in the race. At the finishing line, his job is to scale one of the four ropes that lead to the top of a ten-metre high flagpole. Once at the top, he needs to be the first to catch hold of the light blue flag to be proclaimed the winner. Second and third prizes are white and red flags respectively whilst fourth place have to console themselves with a couple of geese instead!
Feast of St John the Baptist
The Feast of St John the Baptist is celebrated each year on 24 June. Festivities are more often found in North West Italy – particularly in Florence. The city organises a number of cultural and folkloric events to celebrate. Events begin with a parade of dignitaries from the Palazzo Vecchio to the Baptistery in the Piazza Duomo. Here, candles are offered to the Archbishop and a Mass is held. The celebrations culminate in a spectacular firework display lighting up the River Arno. Our tip is to head to the north side of the river for the best views.
24 June also sees the final match of the Calcio Storico Fiorentino being played. This annual tradition dates back to the 1450s. This is definitely no ordinary football match though! Played in traditional Renaissance costumes, this mix of football, rugby and wrestling is pretty bloodthirsty at times! The match between the two neighbourhood teams that made it to the final, kicks off at 5 pm in the Piazza Santa Croce. The teams colours are: Santo Spirito (white), Santa Croce (blue), Santa Maria Novella (red) and San Giovanni (green).
A magnificent procession that includes the famous sbandieratori (flag flower) group takes place before the match and travels from the Piazza Santa Maria Novella to the Piazza Santa Croce. This has to be one of the most visually impressive events in Italy in 2024.
Spoleto Festival dei Due Mondi
From 28 June to 14 July 2024, Spoleto will host the annual Festival dei Due Mondi (Festival of the Two Worlds). Founded in 1958, the idea behind the festival name was to showcase American and European culture within the same event — emboldened by a sister event held in South Carolina — and the event has evolved into a three-week festival of art, music, drama, and dance.
Gioco del Ponte
The Gioco del Ponte – Battle of the Bridge – is a historic reenactment which takes place in Pisa on the final Saturday in June. It begins with a massive procession which includes over 700 participants dressed in elaborate 16th century costumes. There are two teams represented – the Mezzogiorno south of the River Arno and the Tramontana north of the river. After the procession, the battle formally begins. Then follows a call to arms, challenges by the ambassadors and finally, the battle itself. The winners are the team that remains in possession of the bridge following a tug-of-war contest.
Santi Pietro e Paolo
In Italy’s capital Rome, St Peter and Paul Day is celebrated annually on 29 June. Snails – lumache – are eaten by locals and visitors alike around the Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano. A spectacular carpet of flowers is created in St Peter’s Square and there is a wonderful show of fireworks in the evening too.
Cycle Like a Pro
In 2024, the 111th edition of the iconic Tour de France Grand Départ will pass through Emilia Romagna, offering cyclists breath-taking routes through Bologna, Rimini, Cesenatico and Piacenza. The race will depart from Florence on 29 June 2024.
Leonardo from Designs to Machines
Until 30 June you can embark on a journey through Leonardo da Vinci’s ingenious designs and machines in Corigliano Calabro, Calabria. Discover the genius of one of history’s greatest minds in one of the most artistically intriguing events in Italy in 2024.
We hope you have a great time enjoying these events in Italy in 2024. If you’re planning a trip in the second half of the year, check out our next installment of this guide: Events in Italy 2024 (July – December) And as always, if you’d like some help finding the perfect accommodation in Italy, get in touch with us at Bookingsforyou.com.