Musica · July 2, 2026 · Siena, Toscana
Il Palio di Siena is one of Italy's oldest and most thrilling competitions, held twice a year in July and August. The July 2nd Palio is dedicated to the Madonna di Provenzano, Siena's patron saint. This spectacular event involves 10 of the city's 17 Contrade (districts) and kicks off with a captivating Passeggiata Storica, a historical parade featuring over 600 costumed participants winding through the city center. The parade is followed by the main event: bareback jockeys racing their horses three times around the Piazza del Campo.
📅 May 31, 2026: The 10 Contrade participating in the July Palio are drawn (this always happens on the last Sunday of May). 📅 June 30 - July 1, 2026: Palio trial races take place in Piazza del Campo. 🎭 July 2, 2026 - afternoon: The Passeggiata Storica, a historical parade with over 600 costumed figures representing all 17 Contrade and the institutions of the Republic of Siena. The parade starts from Piazza del Duomo. 🐎 July 2, 2026: Il Palio di Siena – A spectacular bareback horse race (without saddles) with three laps around the Piazza del Campo. Access to the piazza is free (arrive early before it closes), or you can purchase tickets for private stands, windows, and balconies.