1️⃣ Battle of the Oranges – Ivrea (Piedmont)
Every February, the streets of Ivrea turn into the biggest food fight in Europe. Thousands of people throw oranges at each other to reenact a medieval rebellion.
💡 Tip: Wear a red hat if you don’t want to be pelted — it means you’re a spectator, not a target.
2️⃣ La Quintana – Ascoli Piceno (Marche)
A medieval jousting tournament where knights in full armor compete on horseback — and the entire town dresses like it’s 1450.
💡 Tip: Go early to enjoy the parades and taste local olive all’ascolana (fried stuffed olives).
3️⃣ Scoppio del Carro – Florence (Tuscany)
On Easter Sunday, Florence blows up a giant cart full of fireworks in front of the Duomo. The explosion is said to guarantee a good harvest.
💡 Tip: Get a spot early near Piazza del Duomo — it gets packed fast.
4️⃣ Corsa dei Ceri – Gubbio (Umbria)
Every May, three teams race through the steep streets carrying enormous wooden “candles” that weigh over 300kg. The energy is insane.
💡 Tip: Follow the locals to the best viewpoints — and wear good shoes!
5️⃣ La Festa dei Serpari – Cocullo (Abruzzo)
Imagine a religious procession where a statue of the saint is covered in live snakes. Welcome to one of Italy’s most unique (and slightly terrifying) festivals.
💡 Tip: Don’t worry — the snakes aren’t venomous. But maybe skip if you have ophidiophobia.
6️⃣ Carnevale di Mamoiada – Sardinia
Forget Venice. In Mamoiada, men dressed as black-faced Mamuthones wearing bells and sheepskins parade through town in an ancient ritual to scare away evil spirits.
💡 Tip: Combine the festival with a wine tour — Sardinia has some incredible reds.
✨ Why You’ll Love These Festivals
Because they’re loud, chaotic, and full of soul.
These are traditions that have survived for centuries, where the whole town participates — no tourist show, just real culture.
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Because Italy isn’t just beautiful.
Sometimes… it’s downright crazy (in the best way). 🎉
