The Tournament of the Contrade in Santa Maria La Carità.

The month of July is very important for the people of San Marino because one of the most cherished re-enactments of their traditional heritage, the "Tournament of the Contrade," takes place. This is a particularly engaging medieval joust involving all the inhabitants (of all ages) of the small town. The five contrade of Santa Maria La Carità compete in games such as "a' giostra d'o juorn primm" (the joust of the day before) with medieval games and challenges involving the youngest participants, "a' giostra d'a cuccagna" (the joust of the cuccagna) with challenges of skill, the tug-of-war strength contest, a parade in period costumes and even a gastronomic competition, where housewives compete to demonstrate their perfect culinary skills. The most eagerly awaited competition is the "Palio del Ciuccio," during which each contrada is represented by a jockey who rides a donkey causing it to make five laps around the central square. Also brightening up the days will be a medieval market, performances by musicians and flag-wavers, fire games and additional picturesque events such as "Breakfast with Donkeys" where the little ones can play with these tender and highly intelligent animals. The last four days of the event will also feature the "eggplant festival" to celebrate one of the local delicacies.