If you’re planning a trip to Tuscany, it’s worth checking what’s happening on the calendar. Why? Because imagine flying all that way, renting the perfect villa… and realizing everything’s closed because of a national holiday. Or on the flip side, you roll into a quiet hill town and suddenly find yourself in the middle of a giant street festival.
So, before you go, here’s a look at some of the biggest annual events in Tuscany (excluding Florence which you can find here) and the national holidays that can affect your trip.
Top Annual Events in Tuscany (Outside Florence)
These are some of the most popular, high-energy events in Tuscany that can fill hotels, crowd the roads, or just add a ton of atmosphere to your visit.
1. Palio di Siena – Siena (July 2 and August 16)
Easily one of Italy’s most famous events, the Palio is a centuries-old horse race around Siena’s main square, Piazza del Campo. Ten of the city’s 17 districts (called contrade) compete, and the rivalry runs deep. It’s chaotic, colorful, loud, and unforgettable. If you’re anywhere near Siena in early July or mid-August, expect packed hotels, crowds, and a festive buzz everywhere you go.
2. Luminara di San Ranieri & Regatta – Pisa (June 16–17)
Pisa lights up for its patron saint, San Ranieri, every June. Thousands of candles illuminate the buildings along the Arno River — it’s stunning to see at night. The next day, there’s a traditional boat race (the Regatta di San Ranieri), which is equally fun and very local. If you’re planning to visit Pisa in mid-June, this is one of the most atmospheric times to go.
3. Giostra del Saracino – Arezzo (June and September)
Arezzo’s historic jousting tournament is one of the most unique and entertaining events in Tuscany. Knights on horseback charge at a wooden target (the “Saracen”) while cheering crowds fill the medieval square. There are two editions each year — one in June and another in September. The city goes all out with parades, medieval costumes, and music.
4. L’Eroica – Gaiole in Chianti (First Sunday in October)
This vintage cycling event is a big deal in the Chianti hills. Thousands of riders in retro gear take to the scenic “white roads” (strade bianche) on antique bikes. It’s both a sporting event and a nod to Tuscany’s cycling heritage. Even if you’re not riding, it’s a great weekend to experience the Chianti region — just book early, because everything fills up.
5. Carnevale di Viareggio – Viareggio (February)
This is one of Italy’s biggest and most impressive carnivals, famous for its massive paper-mâché floats that parade along the seaside promenade. The floats are incredibly detailed (and often political), and the atmosphere is pure fun — music, costumes, and confetti everywhere. Parades usually run over several weekends in February leading up to Lent.
6. Mercantia – Certaldo (Mid-July)
Certaldo’s medieval old town transforms into a massive open-air theater for this arts festival. You’ll find acrobats, dancers, fire shows, musicians, and street performers filling every alleyway. It’s creative, lively, and very Italian. If you’re in Tuscany in July, it’s an amazing experience.
7. Bravio delle Botti – Montepulciano (Last Sunday in August)
This one’s classic Tuscany: men from each of Montepulciano’s neighborhoods roll enormous wine barrels uphill through the old town. It’s exhausting just to watch. There’s a full week of celebrations leading up to the race, with wine tastings, parades, and dinners.
8. Lucca Summer Festival – Lucca (July)
For music lovers, this is Tuscany’s biggest concert series. International artists like Ed Sheeran, Stevie Wonder, or Elton John have performed here — all inside Lucca’s historic city walls. Tickets sell out fast, and the city fills with energy.
9. Boccaccesca – Certaldo (October)
A cozy, food-and-wine-filled festival that celebrates the best of Tuscan flavors. Cooking demos, local wines, and market stalls fill the streets of Certaldo Alto. It’s one of those “eat your way through the day” kind of events.
10. Autumn Food Festivals (October–November)
Fall is festival season in Tuscany — think chestnuts, truffles, mushrooms, and new olive oil. Arcidosso, San Miniato, and many smaller towns host food fairs (sagre) celebrating their seasonal harvests. They’re fun, very local, and a great excuse to sample everything.
National Holidays in Italy
Here’s where things get practical. On national holidays, many shops, restaurants, and offices close. Trains may run on a reduced schedule, and smaller family-run businesses might shut completely for the day.
Here’s a breakdown of Italy’s public holidays and how they typically affect travelers in Tuscany.
January 1 – New Year’s Day (Capodanno)
Expect: Everything is closed except some restaurants and hotels. Public transport runs on limited schedules. Towns usually have fireworks the night before.
January 6 – Epiphany (La Befana)
Expect: Shops often close, but there are fun celebrations for kids. In some towns, “La Befana,” a kind witch, gives out candy and gifts.
Easter Sunday & Easter Monday (Pasqua & Pasquetta – Dates Vary)
Expect: Easter Sunday is quiet — most shops and museums close. Easter Monday is more social, with Italians heading to the countryside for picnics. Many attractions stay closed both days.
April 25 – Liberation Day
Expect: National holiday commemorating the end of WWII. Shops and government offices close, but many restaurants remain open. Parades and concerts are common.
May 1 – Labor Day (Festa dei Lavoratori)
Expect: Almost everything closes, including museums and transportation services. A good day to relax at your hotel or enjoy a countryside picnic.
June 2 – Republic Day (Festa della Repubblica)
Expect: National holiday celebrating Italy’s Republic. Government offices and banks close, but many tourist attractions stay open.
August 15 – Ferragosto (Assumption Day)
Expect: This is Italy’s big summer holiday. Many Italians go on vacation, so some restaurants and shops close — especially in smaller towns. Coastal areas, though, are packed.
November 1 – All Saints’ Day (Ognissanti)
Expect: Public offices, schools, and many shops close. Families visit cemeteries, but tourist attractions may still open with reduced hours.
December 8 – Immaculate Conception (Immacolata Concezione)
Expect: Marks the start of the Christmas season in Italy. Shops might open in the afternoon, but many close for the morning.
December 25 – Christmas Day (Natale)
Expect: Everything closes. Restaurants with special holiday menus should be booked well ahead.
December 26 – St. Stephen’s Day (Santo Stefano)
Expect: A continuation of Christmas festivities. Many museums close, but restaurants and tourist spots in larger cities might reopen.
Final Thoughts & A Few Quick Tips
Tuscany’s calendar is packed with incredible festivals — and knowing the holiday schedule can make your trip smoother. Whether you want to plan around the crowds or for them, having these dates in mind helps you make the most of your visit.
- On holidays, trains and buses often run on Sunday schedules — check ahead.
- If you’re staying in a small town, it might also have a patron saint day (basically a local holiday). Everything may close for that too.
- If you love big events, time your visit around one of the festivals. If you prefer quiet countryside days, plan to avoid them.
- During Ferragosto (mid-August), a lot of locals take vacation, so some smaller restaurants and shops shut down completely.
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