Historic Costume Parade
Outsiders can view the elaborately costumed parade from public sidewalks; respect and space should be given to participants.
~16:00
Bravio of the Barrels
Bravio delle Botti
Montepulciano, Italy
Aug 2, 2026Expected
Each year, the Tuscan hill town of Montepulciano holds the Bravìo delle Botti, a fierce uphill race of wooden barrels. Teams from the town's old districts push their heavy barrels through the steep streets to honor the patron saint, preceded by a grand costumed procession, in a centuries-old contest of strength and civic pride.
Key moments
Day 1 · Aug 2
Bravio Race
Visitors can watch along the city streets, with locals cheering. Spectators should keep off the race route and be respectful of the townspeople.
~18:00
Where it happens
Centro Storico di Montepulciano
Montepulciano, Italy
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Plan the timing
Stand behind safety barriers, do not interrupt participants or pageants.
Respect local boundaries
Respect the historic city streets and local participants. Do not interfere with the course...
Ask before close-up photos
Ask permission
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Crowd level: moderate.
Tickets
Free events are available.
Reviewed mediaREGIONAL HISTORY & CIVIC HERITAGE
Bravio of the Barrels
Bravio delle Botti
Montepulciano, Italy
Each year, the Tuscan hill town of Montepulciano holds the Bravìo delle Botti, a fierce uphill race of wooden barrels. Teams from the town's old districts push their heavy barrels through the steep streets to honor the patron saint, preceded by a grand costumed procession, in a centuries-old contest of strength and civic pride.
Under the radarStill under the radar
Aug 2, 2026Expected dates
Verified this year
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The story behind it
The race dates back centuries and venerates Montepulciano’s patron saint. Each of the town’s contrade (districts) honors its history through the competition, which celebrates the community’s medieval heritage and agricultural roots.
Key moments to know
Day 1Aug 22 moments
Day 1Aug 2~16:00Expected
Historic Costume Parade
Outsiders can view the elaborately costumed parade from public sidewalks; respect and space should be given to participants.
Day 1Aug 2~18:00Expected
Bravio Race
Visitors can watch along the city streets, with locals cheering. Spectators should keep off the race route and be respectful of the townspeople.
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Plan the timing
Stand behind safety barriers, do not interrupt participants or pageants.
Respect local boundaries
Respect the historic city streets and local participants. Do not interfere with the course or consume alcohol i...
Ask before close-up photos
Ask permission
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Aug 2, 2026
Estimated
City / Area
Montepulciano
Tuscany
Cost
Free public events available
Good for
Families welcome
Very High visitor welcome
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