21 unique festivals in Italy

The Procession of the Mysteries in Trapani, Sicily is among the most ancient religious festivals in Italy. See life-size wooden sculptures depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ carried through the streets by locals in hooded robes and costumes. Accompanied by prayers and haunting chants, the atmosphere is incredibly moving.

This centuries-old tradition takes place in Florence. An elaborate wagon about two stories tall is pulled by oxen through the city’s streets to the square in front of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. As part of the Easter Sunday mass, the archbishop lights a dove-shaped rocket symbolising the Holy Spirit that ignites the cart and sets off a huge fireworks display.

The oldest international cultural exhibition of its kind, Venice Biennale has been organised every year since 1895. The event essentially transforms the whole city into an art gallery. As you wander Venice’s winding streets, you’ll discover masterpieces popping up around every corner – in palazzos, churches and even on floating pavilions.

You’ve never been to a birthday party like this one! According to legend, the Eternal City was founded by twin brothers and demigods Romulus and Remus in 753 BC. Celebrations include everything from gladiator shows and parades to trench-digging rituals and fascinating re-enactments of ancient ceremonies. 

This popular cultural event in Florence dates back to the Renaissance. With its reputation as an artistic hub, the month-long festival features everything from classical music concerts and opera performances to ballet productions and art exhibitions.

A feast for the senses, this enchanting event is held in the Sicilian town of Noto. See streets transformed into carpets of floral art using petals, seeds and other natural materials to welcome springtime.

Celebrated annually in Sassari, this Sardinian festival showcases the island’s rich cultural heritage through parades on horseback. Originally created to honour rulers, today it’s known as the ‘Festival of Beauty’ because horses and riders are adorned with elaborate costumes and trailed by enchanting folk dancers and musicians.

This cherished annual tradition honours Pisa’s patron saint, Ranieri Scacceri. Thousands of candles are placed on wooden frames that have been fitted into facades running along the Arno River and within the city walls. As dusk descends, the streets come alive and beloved landmarks, including the Cathedral and Leaning Tower of Pisa, are outlined in the twinkling lights.

Held in Matera, this celebration of the town’s sacred protectress, Madonna della Bruna, is deeply rooted in local folklore. Watch as a towering papier-mâché statue winds through the streets on a richly adorned float. The procession culminates with its burning in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, symbolising a renewal of faith.

This bareback horse race takes place twice a year in Siena’s Piazza del Campo. Dating back to the 17th century, it pits the city’s 17 ‘contradas’ (neighbourhoods) against each other. Before the race, there’s an elaborate historical procession, called Il Corteo Storico, with participants donning medieval costumes. Then after three thrilling laps around the piazza, the victorious horse and jockey are awarded the ‘palio’, a hand-painted silk banner. 

Prepare to be serenaded by the smooth sounds of jazz legends and up-and-coming artists at this internationally renowned music festival in Perugia. Performances are held in theatres and the historic squares. Between sets, you can indulge in Italian delicacies, sip on fine wines and explore the picturesque streets.

Lake Maggiore provides an incomparable setting for this celebration of classical music. Acclaimed musicians from around the world converge in its historic venues to perform everything from symphonies to chamber music against the backdrop of the stunning lake and Alps.

This is one of Italy’s most eagerly awaited summer holidays. Originating in Roman times to honour the harvest and Emperor Augustus, it’s evolved into a national holiday marked with picnics, concerts and fireworks displays all across the country.

Lights, camera, gondola! Set against the backdrop of Venice’s canals, celebrities descend to showcase cinematic masterpieces at this glamorous festival. From the red carpet to screenings in historic venues, this is truly a film lover’s paradise. 

There’s no better way to honour the beloved fruit of the vine! From stomping grapes and grape-themed games to sampling wine and grape-inspired culinary delights, this festival offers a taste of Italy’s rich viticulture. Held early in harvest season, you’ll discover popular grape festivals at Lodi in Lombardy, Impuneta in Tuscany and Marino near Rome.

Munch and crunch your way through a chestnut wonderland as these festivals are held throughout Italy during autumn’s peak. Along with cooking contests and demonstrations, they boast live music and entertainment. One of the most famous chestnut festivals takes places every Sunday in October in the small Tuscan town of Marradi.

Another gastronomic extravaganza, this is your chance to taste the prized fungi – in everything from pasta dishes to cheeses and oils – while enjoying cooking demonstrations and truffle hunts. The International White Truffle Fair at Alba in the Piedmont region is famous for its truffle auctions and tastings, plus you’ll come across truffle festivals at San Miniato in Tuscany and Norcia in Umbria.

In the dark days of winter, everyone in Siracusa, Sicily gathers to pay tribute to the city’s patron saint and celebrate the warmth and hope she radiates. There are processions through the historic streets, with statues of St Lucia adorned with flowers and candles. Expect to feast on Sicilian delicacies – like arancini, cassata and cannoli – while delighting in street performances and live music.

Christmas Day is a time of togetherness and eating in Italy. Families gather around tables for multi-course meals and then tuck into traditional cakes and sweet breads like panettone and pandoro for dessert. As in the UK, the festive season extends to 26 December, with Santo Stefano adding another layer of joy. Named after Saint Stephen, this day also sees locals head outdoors to socialise at community markets and fairs.

In Italy, the end of the festive season is Epiphany, a religious celebration marking the arrival of the Three Wise Men to visit baby Jesus. Parades with costumed characters representing the Magi, as well as re-enactments of the Biblical story take place on 6 January. One of the most beloved traditions associated with Epiphany is the arrival of La Befana, a kindly witch. The night before, children leave out stockings or shoes for the old woman who flies in on a broomstick to fill them with sweets and small gifts if they have been good... or coal if they have misbehaved.

The joyous carnival season begins in late January and lasts until the solemn period of Lent. Traditions vary by region but typically include street parties, masquerade balls, grand parades, sumptuous feasting and plenty of wine. Of course, the Carnevale di Venezia (Venice’s Carnival) with its elaborate masks, costumes and boat processions is the most famous of them all. It usually takes place in February. The thrilling ‘volo dell’angelo’ (flight of the angel), where a costumed performer descends from the bell tower in St Mark’s Square, is not to be missed. Other fantastic carnivals include the Carnevale di Viareggio in Tuscany with its colourful floats and the Carnevale di Ivrea in Piedmont, known for its historic orange-throwing battle.