Overview
On 3 September 2023, the eagerly awaited Palio di Asti returns. This traditional town festival famously culminates in an exciting bareback horse race.
The event has its origins in the celebrations in honour of the town’s patron saint, San Secondo, and its main event sees 21 contenders representing different districts, boroughs and municipalities compete on horseback.
For this town, with its rich medieval history, with palaces and streets that tell of a glorious past, the Palio has a strength and vitality that reinforce the bond of its districts and boroughs with tradition and local pride.
Before the race, there is a procession with more than 1,200 participants wearing period costumes and a series of important events: lucky dinners on the eve of the race, the Palio degli Sbandieratori (Flag-wavers’ Palio), scheduled for the preceding Thursday, and the Festival delle Sagre, a grand showcase of Asti and Piedmont cuisine featuring typical dishes.
At 4 pm on Piazza Alfieri, the judge starts the Palio. The jockeys compete for glory and the coveted Drappo, accompanied by ceaseless waving of flags and banners and the blare of trumpets.
The Palio has started!
When
The first Sunday in September (but the events preceding the Palio start from the Thursday).
Where
The streets of the Historic Centre and Piazza Alfieri, Asti.
For event information and ticket prices, visit the official website
For event information and ticket prices, visit the official website
14100 Asti AT, Italia
