Palio dei Rioni, Castiglion Fiorentino

The Valdichiana is an area rich in tradition and one of the most anticipated events of the cultural calendar is an annual horseback race between the three districts of Castiglion Fiorentino, the Palio dei Rioni, which takes place on the 3rd Sunday in June. With historical processions preceding it, the race takes place at Piazzale Garibaldi at 6.45pm, where the whole town gathers in their respective colours, waving flags, singing and cheering for the two riders entered for each district. You can purchase an entry ticket into the race arena for €10 per person and soak up the electric atmosphere and medieval pageantry. The winners celebrate after a march to their local church to give thanks and the bars and cafes of the town stay open late into the evening.