Tuscany - the land of fairs and festivals
Tuscany is a picturesque land, famous for its beautiful landscapes, famous people, exceptional wine, but also for the organization of many global and local events. This region attracts tourists with its beautiful landscapes, vineyards and olive groves, it is also a favorite destination for artists from all over the world. The villas have there, among others Sting, Roberto Cavalli, George Lucas and many others.
Tuscany is one of those places that can be visited at any time of the year . Fans of sunbathing and summer recreation will go to the Tyrrhenian Sea in the summer months, but it is worth noting that this region has many attractions also in autumn and winter. Visiting the capital of Tuscany - Florence, as well as Siena, can be planned at any time, but if we want to learn about local customs and traditions, we should go to festivals and festivals organized there in summer and autumn .
Palio not only for horse lovers
July, August and September are the months with the most local events in the whole of Tuscany. Many of them are very interesting and allow you to learn about local traditions and customs. Important summer events take place in the second largest city in Tuscany, after Florence, Siena .
It is famous not only for its many monuments and climatic atmosphere, but also for the Palio race that takes place there twice a year. This event is held on July 2 and August 16 , always attracting horse racing fans from all over the world to Siena.
The Palio is a race of bareback riders . Participants from 10 city districts take part in it. The event is a tribute to the Mother of God. This event has a very rich tradition, with its roots dating back to the Middle Ages. The event is free and takes place in the main square of Siena - Piazza del Campo, where there are 25,000. viewers. The race starts at 7:30 PM, but there are parades and shows throughout the day.
In search of unusual flavors
Fans of new flavors and dishes should go to the Sagra Della Bistecca (Steak Festival) , which takes place in Cortona . This event has been organized continuously since 2012 on August 14 and 15, on the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, in the Parterre gardens.
The Steak Festival is a unique opportunity to taste Chianina beef , associated with Tuscany for several centuries. Beef steaks are grilled by excellent chefs, following an old Tuscan tradition. Chianti DOC wine is served with the meat.
After the steak festival, on the third Sunday of August, Cortona also hosts the Sagra del Fungo Poecino, or Boletus Festival , where you can try dishes prepared with the addition of mushrooms found in the surrounding forests. At the turn of August and September, the Mostra Antiquaria (Antiques Fair) is also organized in Cortona, attracting art collectors from all over the world.
Wine and lanterns
In the vicinity of the historic town of Lucka, in the small town of Montecarlo , at the turn of August and September, the Wine Festival (Vinaria) takes place . It is an amazing opportunity to taste various types of local vineyard products, all for free. It is worth adding that this festival is growing every year, hosting not only more and more exhibitors, but also tourists.
In September, there is a special event in the capital of Tuscany - Florence. It is Festa Della Rificolona (Lantern Festival) , considered to be the oldest local festival. Its origins date back to the most important agricultural fair held in Piazza SS Annunziata . On the day of the festival, keeping the centuries-old tradition alive, children run around Florence with lanterns (rificolone). Additionally, there are street parties and theatrical performances. It is also worth taking a look at the market where you can buy really unique things that day.
Music, theater and leisure
In summer, from June to August, the Estate Fiesolana - a music, theater and film festival - is organized in the small town of Fiesole, about 8 km from Florence. Individual events take place in different parts of the city, e.g. in Ridotto del Teatro Romano, Palazzina Mangani, Loggia della Badia Fiesolana, Chiesa di San Domenico a Fiesole or in Cattedrale di Fiesole. During the festival, you can listen to classical music and jazz, watch theater performances and exhibitions, and listen to fragments of good prose.
From year to year, the festival is getting more and more popular, so it is worth taking care of comfortable accommodation in advance. Many tourists recommend Camping Panoramico Fiesole located on the hill. Thanks to its convenient location, you can quickly reach any part of the city from there, and you can also admire the panorama of nearby Florence. You can also visit Florence in person using the convenient bus connection.
There are many attractions on the campsite. One of them is a large swimming pool surrounded by numerous sun loungers. There is also a solarium and a cafe, while children can spend time in the playground. On site you can use the restaurant , fast food bar, shop, and eat real Italian pizza in a local pizzeria.
The resort offers a comfortable and well-equipped holiday home with a kitchenette, bathroom, bedroom and a spacious patio. The camping also has plots surrounded by greenery , equipped with sanitary and electricity connections.
Italy, Croatia, Spain ... are the countries I would like to come back to every summer. I like to discover new places, whether it is a bustling capital city or a quiet town on a mountain slope.