The Palio of the Contrade

On the first weekend of September, the town of Fucecchio is enlivened by a great festival, the Palio delle Contrade. A medieval festival during which re-enactments of ancient crafts, street performers and musical performances enliven the town's historic center. The magical atmosphere envelops Fucecchio with artists and jesters, falconers and fakirs, recreating those sensations typical of medieval centuries. The second day of the festival opens with a historical procession of about 1,200 figures parading through the streets of the town. This is followed by the Palio proper, a horse race that closes one of the most heartfelt celebrations for the people of Fucecchio.