Historical Procession
March through city streets by costumed flag-wavers, nobility, and city officials; community pageantry
Palio di Asti
Asti, Italy
Sep 6, 2026ExpectedSource
Each September, the Piedmont town of Asti holds one of Italy's oldest horse races, a bareback Palio run since at least 1275 in honor of its patron, Saint Secundus. A grand medieval parade in rich costume fills the town before the riders thunder around the central piazza for the coveted banner.
Key moments
Flag-Waver Exhibitions
Colorful, skillful demonstrations with local folk music, adding to festive atmosphere
Blessing of Horses and Jockeys
Observers can attend church ceremonies where horses and riders are blessed with holy water by priests
Around 10:00
Where it happens
Piazza Alfieri
Asti, Italy
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Dress for the setting
Comfortable shoes (walking and standing all day)
Respect local boundaries
Respect procession boundaries and rituals; do not disrupt the ceremonial events; observe fr...
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Crowd level: very high.
Tickets
Ticket required: €25 - €100
Reviewed mediaMAJOR HISTORY & CIVIC HERITAGE
Palio di Asti
Asti, Italy
Each September, the Piedmont town of Asti holds one of Italy's oldest horse races, a bareback Palio run since at least 1275 in honor of its patron, Saint Secundus. A grand medieval parade in rich costume fills the town before the riders thunder around the central piazza for the coveted banner.
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AnchorCultural anchor
Sep 6, 2026Expected dates
Verified this year
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The story behind it
Originating from the feast of Asti's patron Saint Secundus, the Palio di Asti has medieval roots dating back to at least 1275, making it one of Italy's oldest festivals. Historically, it celebrated civil and religious occasions with competitive races outside the city walls. Today it symbolizes Asti's communal pride and continuity, embodying the city's medieval heritage. The festival is organized by the city's Contrade (distri...
Key moments to know
Historical Procession
March through city streets by costumed flag-wavers, nobility, and city officials; community pageantry
Flag-Waver Exhibitions
Colorful, skillful demonstrations with local folk music, adding to festive atmosphere
Around 10:00Approximate
Blessing of Horses and Jockeys
Observers can attend church ceremonies where horses and riders are blessed with holy water by priests
~16:00Expected
Horse Race
Spectators in grandstands and piazza cheer as jockeys in medieval costume race without saddles; award ceremony with flags and music
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Dress for the setting
Comfortable shoes (walking and standing all day)
Respect local boundaries
Respect procession boundaries and rituals; do not disrupt the ceremonial events; observe from designated areas
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Sep 6, 2026
Provisional
City / Area
Asti
Piedmont
Cost
€25 - €100
Book ahead if required
Good for
Families welcome
Very High visitor welcome
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