From Siena to Venice: July Festivals That Bring Italy to Life!

Italy in July is alive with vibrant traditions, medieval pageantry, mouthwatering food, and unforgettable cultural events. From historic horse races to dazzling fireworks over Venetian canals, there’s something magical around every corner.

If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Italy in its most festive form, July is your month.

🏇 Palio di Siena: The Historic Horse Race

📍 Siena, Tuscany🗓 July 2nd (and again on August 16th)

The Palio di Siena is Italy’s most iconic horse race, held in the breathtaking Piazza del Campo. Ten riders representing different city districts (contrade) race bareback in a thrilling spectacle filled with passion, tradition, and pageantry. Expect crowds, cheering locals, and an unforgettable display of Italian spirit.

🐗 Wild Boar Festival

📍 Cantagallo, Tuscany🗓 First Sunday in July

A food lover’s dream, the Wild Boar Festival celebrates rustic Tuscan cuisine in a lively, welcoming setting. Sample savory dishes made from local cinghiale (wild boar) and soak in the friendly, family-style atmosphere of this small-town sagra.

🙏 Festa del Redentore: A Venetian Spectacle

📍 Venice🗓 Third Sunday in July

This stunning festival commemorates the end of a devastating plague in 1576. A temporary footbridge connects Venice to Redentore Church on Giudecca Island. Locals gather in decorated boats for an epic night of food, celebration, and one of Italy’s most spectacular firework shows.

🐎 L'Ardia di San Costantino

📍 Sedilo, Sardinia🗓 July 5–7

This adrenaline-filled horse race honors Saint Constantine and takes place around the Sanctuary of San Costantino. Riders repeat the course multiple times between evening and morning. Expect bold horsemanship, religious tradition, and delicious Sardinian street food.

⚔️ Giostra della Quintana

📍 Foligno, Umbria🗓 Early July

Step back in time with this 17th-century jousting tournament where over 600 locals parade in full costume. The event includes medieval reenactments, traditional feasts, and a thrilling contest of skill and pageantry.

🎇 Festa della Madonna Bruna

📍 Matera, Basilicata🗓 July 2nd

In the stunning city of Matera, known for its ancient cave dwellings, the Madonna Bruna Festival features a moving procession of the Madonna statue, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the night sky.

🏰 Terzieri Palio

📍 Montecasiano, Marche🗓 Third & Fourth Sundays in July

This lesser-known but captivating Palio recreates 15th-century competitions between the town’s three historic districts (terzieri). Enjoy music, authentic medieval street scenes, and local specialties at food stalls throughout the charming town.

🍝 July: The Season of Sagre

Throughout the country, you'll find sagre—small-town food festivals celebrating everything from pasta to prosciutto, truffles to tomatoes. These events are open to all and offer an affordable way to taste regional Italian cuisine at its finest.

If you’re craving a summer unlike any other, Italy in July offers the perfect mix of history, flavor, and festive joy. Whether you're watching horses thunder through ancient piazzas or enjoying seafood from a gondola on the Grand Canal, these once-a-year experiences will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Pack your bags, book your flight, and write your own chapter in Italian summer history!! 🇮🇹