Cultural Travel ideasStep back in time to rediscover traditions and ancient crafts, relive historical moments, or simply learn about life in the past.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take part in one of the many historical events that take place in Emilia-Romagna: you can choose from Palio competitions, jousts, historical or religious re-enactments, fairs and festivals.
From the Celts to the Etruscans, from the Roman Empire to the Middle Ages, from the Renaissance to the Risorgimento: there are plenty of opportunities to spend a weekend immersed in culture and history.
Here is the calendar of events, organized by province.
Historical re-enactments in the Piacenza area
PALIO DELLE CONTRADE
When: June 27-28, 2026
Where: Bobbio (PC)
The town’s districts compete in skill contests to win the banner.
At the end of June, Bobbio celebrates its ancient traditions with the Palio delle Contrade. This event features flag throwers and musicians, a parade of the districts, and a greasy pole. There are also many challenges between the districts, including egg throwing, archery, bale racing, tug-of-war and sponge racing.
RELIVE THE MIDDLE AGES
When: September 12-13, 2026
Where: Castell’Arquato (PC)
A journey back in time, to a real medieval camp.
A historical re-enactment event takes place along the Arda stream at the foot of Castell’Arquato. The medieval village comes alive with camps, armoured tournaments, fire shows, ancient markets and the spectacular ‘battlefield’.
SAN MARTINO DI MONTICELLI
When: November 6-8, 2026
Where: Monticelli d’Ongina (PC)
An event that recalls life in the early 1900s.
The first weekend of November in Monticelli d’Ongina is dedicated to tradition with the San Martino di Monticelli autumn festival.
Historically, this period around 11 November marked the start of various activities, including the opening of schools and courts. It was also a time for slaughtering pigs and drinking new wine. In short, it was a time of abundance and celebration, even for those living in the countryside.
Farmhands would often change farms and landlords in November, and this custom was so deeply rooted that the phrase ‘fare San Martino’ still means moving house today.
Historical re-enactments in the Parma area
MEDIEVAL TOURNAMENT
When: April 5-6, 2026
Where: Varano De’ Melegari (PR)
Medieval reenactment in the castle.
Experience an Easter and Easter Monday like no other, immersed in a medieval atmosphere. It’s also another opportunity to discover the Pallavicino Castle in Varano de’ Melegari.
PALIO DELLE CONTRADE
When: June 5-7, 2026
Where: San Secondo Parmense (PR)
An event commemorating the celebrations that took place in 1523, on the occasion of the marriage between Marquis Pier Maria Rossi and Camilla Gonzaga.
The Palio delle Contrade is held every year on the first weekend of June in the municipality of San Secondo Parmense. The Rossi family court and the six districts: Bureg di Minen, Castell’Aicardi, Grillo, Dragonda, Prevostura and Trinità — enliven the village with historical parades, banquets, Renaissance ceremonies and propitiatory dinners.
PALIO DI PARMA
When: September 19-20, 2026
Where: Parma
The re-enactment of the ancient “Corsa dello Scarlatto”.
Every year in Parma, the 14th-century Corsa dello Scarlatto is brought back to life. Dating back to 1313, it was established to celebrate the engagement of Ghiberto III da Correggio, lord of Parma, to Maddalena Rossi di San Secondo.
While the participants originally competed in running races and horseback duels, the revived Palio now includes a programme of relay races through the city streets, costumed parades, battles between medieval warriors, dances and performances typical of the era.
Historical re-enactments in the Reggio Emilia area
MATILDIC HISTORICAL PARADE
When: May 22-24, 2026
Where: Quattro Castella (RE)
4 days to relive the atmosphere of the Matildic period.
The Matildic Historical Parade features over 1,000 extras in period costume re-enacting the episode of Matilda of Canossa’s investiture as Imperial Vicari in May 1111 in Quattro Castella.
Activities in the 6,000 m² historic village include re-enactments of military camps and camp life, medieval dinners, guided tours, art markets, shows, archery tournaments, parades and performances by flag throwers and musicians from the four districts.
It also features the Quintana dell’Anello, a knightly game of skill where participants must thread rings with their lances while riding, and the Gran Passo d’Armi, also known as Gioco del Ponte.
Corteo Storico Matildico | Ph. Comitato Italiano Associazioni Nazionali Storiche via Facebook
Corteo Storico Matildico | Ph. Maria Cristina Bedani via Facebook
Corteo Storico Matildico | Ph. Maria Cristina Bedani via Facebook
Corteo Storico Matildico | Ph. Maria Cristina Bedani via Facebook
THE TABLE OF BYZANTIUM
When: July 10-12, 2026
Where: Baiso (RE)
An in-depth study of the heritage of the early Middle Ages from a cultural, geopolitical and gastronomic point of view.
An event dedicated to medieval history, with particular reference to the 6th to 8th centuries, when the territories between the Enza and Panaro rivers were disputed between the Eastern Roman Empire and the population of Germanic origin, the Lombards.
CANOSSANA HISTORICAL REENACTMENT
When: September 5, 2026
Where: Canossa (RE)
The event commemorates the historic meeting that took place on 25 January 1077 between Pope Gregory VII and Emperor Henry IV. Thanks to the mediation of Countess Matilda of Canossa, the two leaders reached a peace agreement.
Rievocazione Storica Canossana 2024 Ph. Le Contrade di Canossa, via Facebook
Rievocazione Storica Canossana 2024 Ph. Le Contrade di Canossa, via Facebook
Rievocazione Storica Canossana 2024 Ph. Le Contrade di Canossa, via Facebook
Historical re-enactments in the Modena area
LIVING WAY OF THE CROSS
When: April 3, 2026
Where: Frassinoro (MO)
The reenactment of the drama of Golgotha.
Every three years on Good Friday at 9 p.m. (at the end of the religious service in the Abbey), the traditional and solemn Living Way of the Cross is reenacted in Frassinoro, a popular religious event with distant origins.
FINALESTENSE
When: June 19-21, 2026
Where: Finale Emilia (MO)
Three days of Renaissance charm and folklore.
Finale Emilia, around 1500, was under the rule of the Este family. The events include the Paladins’ Tournament, an equestrian show based on the characters from Ludovico Ariosto’s Orlando Furioso; the Palio delle Cerchi, with games of challenge and period-themed shows; numerous historical military groups, artisan guilds, and the Renaissance historical market.
Finalestense | Ph. Giulio Pola via Facebook
Finalestense | Ph. Giulio Pola via Facebook
Finalestense | Ph. Giulio Pola via Facebook
Finalestense | Ph. Giulio Pola via Facebook
LUDI DI SAN BARTOLOMEO
When: August 21-24, 2026
Where: Formigine (MO)
Four days of parades, ancient crafts, themed taverns, and the exciting “burning” of the castle with fireworks.
The Ludi di San Bartolomeo in Formigine is a historic medieval festival that enlivens the historic center and the castle around August 24, in honor of the patron saint.
MUTINA BOICA
When: September 10-13, 2026
Where: Modena
Ten days to discover the origins of Mutina, the ancient name of Modena.
The event, dedicated to the foundation of the Roman colony of Modena, offers the opportunity to visit reconstructed Roman camps, witness open-air battles, enjoy historical re-enactments and equestrian games, and take part in workshops for adults and children.
Mutina Boica | Ph. Pervenio via Facebook
Mutina Boica | via Facebook
Mutina Boica | Ph. Daniela Ori via Facebook
Mutina Boica | via Facebook
LIVING CHECKERS AND HISTORICAL PARADE
When: September 12-13, 2026
Where: Castelvetro di Modena (MO)
In Piazza Roma, a unique game of checkers is brought to life, with young men and women acting as the pieces.
This Living Checkers game is held in even-numbered years to commemorate the Marquises Rangone’s celebrations in honour of the poet Torquato Tasso, who sought refuge in Castelvetro in 1564.
Historical re-enactments in the Bologna area
THE HOUSE OF TIME
When: April 18-19, 2026
Where: Ronchi Castle in Crevalcore (BO)
A multi-era gathering, from the Celts to World War II.
A journey through time brought to life by more than 300 reenactors: from the Celts to World War II, including drills, training, and civilian life passionately reconstructed.
4 STEPS INTO THE MIDDLE AGES
When: May 2-3, 2026
Where: Crevalcore (BO)
A festival to understand and perhaps reevaluate the Middle Ages as an important part of our history.
The Middle Ages, and in particular the period between 1380 and 1410, come back to life at the Castello dei Ronchi in Crevalcore. Thanks to the large encampment, brought to life by artisans and merchants, soldiers and commoners, it will be possible to witness scenes from everyday life.
At the historical market, skilled artisans will exhibit and demonstrate the crafts of the time, while the Reenactment of the Battle will commemorate the event of 1390 when Crevalcore was the theater of war between the army of Duke Alberico da Barbiano, commander of the Bolognese troops, and the Visconti army.
4passinelmedioevo, Torneo di tiro con l'arco Ph. Tizioano Capelli via Facebook
4passinelmedioevo via Facebook
4passinelmedioevo via Facebook
4passinelmedioevo via Facebook
SAGRA DELLA BADESSA
When: May 23-24, 2026
Where: Ozzano dell’Emilia (BO)
The story of the blessed Lucia da Settefonti, with whom a knight fell in love.
Since 1985, this festival has been bringing medieval traditions to life in Ozzano dell’Emilia, offering visitors a variety of music, shows and delicious food.
MEDIEVAL FESTIVALS ABBAZIA 1092
When: June 5-7, 2026
Where: Monteveglio (BO)
A three-day historical reenactment in the hills of Bologna.
Every year for 3 days, the village of Monteveglio Abbey is transformed into a medieval village with camps, ancient crafts, duels, historical parades, fire shows, and taverns.
8CENTO: THE BATTLE OF THE MONTAGNOLA
When: September 6, 2026
Where: Bologna
A reenactment that evokes the historical memory of the Risorgimento.
Every year, the association 8cento APS organizes a historical reenactment dedicated to the Battle of Montagnola: in September, one hundred actors in historical uniforms and civilian clothes reconstruct the battle of August 8, 1848, when the Bolognese drove the Austrian troops out of the city.
8cento APS, Battaglia della Montagnola via Facebook
8cento APS, Battaglia della Montagnola via Facebook
8cento APS, Battaglia della Montagnola via Facebook
8cento APS, Battaglia della Montagnola via Facebook
LEGIONS IN AGRO BOIORUM
When: September 17-20, 2026
Where: Castenaso (BO)
The legions of Rome in the land of the Boii Gauls.
This is the name of the historical re-enactment inspired by the battle between the army of the Roman consul Publius Cornelius Scipio Nasica and the Gallic army, an event that gave birth to the town of Castenaso.
In fact, the name Castenaso derives from the Latin “Castrum Nasicae”, due to the camp (castrum) built in 189 BC by the Roman consul Nasica, who stayed in this place, on the right bank of the river Idice, for a whole winter before facing the Gallic army, which was encamped on the opposite bank.
During the three-day event, it’s possible to immerse oneself in history, with camps, workshops, ancient crafts and performances, gladiatorial shows, and much more.
Historical re-enactments in the Ferrara area
PALIO OF FERRARA
When: May 30, 2026
Where: Ferrara
A packed schedule of events for the Palio, which boasts the title of the oldest in the world.
Established to celebrate Azzo VII “Novello d’Este” in 1259, it’s important to clarify that there are actually four Palios contested in Piazza Ariostea, corresponding to the districts and boroughs participating: the green one (Maidens’ race), the red one (Youths’ Race), the white one (Donkeys’ Race), and finally, the yellow or golden one (Horses’ Race). Competitions for flag-wavers and musicians are also planned, in addition to Historical Parades.
Ente Palio della città di Ferrara via Facebook
Ente Palio della città di Ferrara via Facebook
Ente Palio della città di Ferrara via Facebook
Ente Palio della città di Ferrara via Facebook
GIOSTRA DEL BORGO
When: June 4-21, 2026
Where: Ferrara
A reenactment of the bloodiest and most forgotten battle in Ferrara’s history.
As every year for over 20 years, the second and third weeks of June see the return of the Giostra del Borgo to the Ferrara Racecourse, an event commemorating the battle of 1333, during which the city managed to resist the siege and defeat the papal troops of Pope John XXII.
With a leap into the past, the evocative atmosphere of a citadel is recreated, where you can see up close the life of the armed camps, the training of archers, the stalls of ancient arts and crafts, but also attend medieval workshops, children’s games, theater and falconry shows, impressive fire shows, and historical costume parades.
Both the hostaria and the restaurant are open to the public every evening, offering the best traditional dishes from Ferrara.
GIOSTRA DEL MONACO
When: August 27 to September 6, 2026
Where: Ferrara
Eleven intense days dedicated to the reenactment of events typical of the Middle Ages in Ferrara.
In the evocative setting of the Baluardo di Santa Maria della Fortezza in Viale IV Novembre in Ferrara, a re-enactment inspired by the history of the war between Azzo VII d’Este and Ezzelino II da Romano, lord of Treviso, known as the Monk, which brought the House of Este subsequent dominion over Ferrara.
The two key events are the Giostra del Monaco, an equestrian tournament with maces, and the re-enactment of the battle of Cassano d’Adda, in which Azzo VII triumphs definitively over Ezzelino da Romano.
Alongside this, there is the setting up of a medieval camp, with scenes of daily life, combats between soldiers, and archery and crossbow tournaments.
Ph. lagiostradelmonaco.it
Ph. lagiostradelmonaco.it
Ph. lagiostradelmonaco.it
Ph. lagiostradelmonaco.it
THE MAGICAL CITY
When: October 9-11, 2026
Where: Ferrara
The Renaissance in the Cloister.
In the Cloister of the Church of Santa Maria della Consolazione, the Rione Santo Spirito, one of the eight districts of the Palio di Ferrara, creates a magical Renaissance atmosphere for three days: performances by musicians, flag throwers, Renaissance dances, an archery area, interactive workshops and historical games for children, as well as the inevitable food stand.
Historical re-enactments in the Ravenna area
SEGAVECCHIA FESTIVAL
When: March 12-15, 2026
Where: Cotignola (RA)
The public burning of the witch of Cotignola.
Since 1451, Cotignola has hosted the historic Segavecchia Carnival. The event commemorates the trial of the witch of Cotignola, guilty of cursing Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan and lord of the city. Every year, the witch is sentenced to be beheaded and burned at the stake in the public square.
PILGRIM FESTIVAL
When: April 17-19, 2026
Where: Faenza (RA)
Discover what life was like in Faenza in the Middle Ages.
The Pilgrim Festival is a historical event organized by the Rione Rosso, one of the five districts into which the city of Faenza has been divided since time immemorial.
The event aims to re-enact the life of the people of Faenza in the Middle Ages, in the ancient suburb of Ganga, in order to promote the cultural heritage of the area and the people who lived there.
CONTESA ESTENSE
When: May 9-17, 2026
Where: Lugo (RA)
Nine days to discover what Lugo was like during the Estense reign.
Every year in mid-May, figures from the past populate Lugo: flag throwers, musicians, soldiers and ladies and gentlemen of yesteryear.
This commemorates the festivities of 1471, when Borso d’Este brought prestige to the city by staying overnight in the Castle of Lugo on his way to Rome to receive the imprimatur from Pope Paul II as Duke of Ferrara.
The main competitions that make up the Palio Contesa Estense are the Palio degli Sbandieratori (flag throwers’ competition), the Palio dei Musici (musicians’ competition), the Historical Parade, the Palio della Soave Creatura (a competition for young women) and the Palio della Caveja, a tug-of-war between the city’s four districts.
THE GOLDEN BIGORDA
When: June 13, 2026
Where: Faenza (RA)
A sneak peek at the future jockeys of the Palio del Niballo.
A version of the Palio del Niballo dedicated to young people, the Torneo della Bigorda d’Oro is contested between the five districts of Faenza.
It is here that the future jockeys of the Palio compete for the Bigorda – a ceramic lance with a gold tip – which in Provençal also meant a light lance used in modern jousting tournaments.
NIBALLO – PALIO OF FAENZA
When: June 28, 2026
Where: Faenza (RA)
The 15th-century joust that still thrills spectators today.
One of the oldest medieval jousts in Italy, known as the “Giostra del Barbarossa” or “Quintana del Niballo,” dates back to 1164, when Emperor Frederick Barbarossa visited Faenza. The five districts of the city compete for the trophy.
The Palio is preceded by the Flag Throwers’ Tournament (the previous weekend) and a historical parade that is a figurative re-enactment of military, civil, and social life in the fifteenth century.
THE CRAZY CHARIOT RACE
When: September 5, 2026
Where: Faenza (RA)
A competition between teams, consisting of a chariot pulled by two young men and driven by a charioteer.
This historical event recreates the atmosphere of a Roman forum in Piazza del Popolo, bringing the splendour of the ancient Roman Empire back to life. Market stalls and evocative scenery are set up, and historical reenactment groups from other cities are involved.
THE BRANCALEONE FORTRESS AT THE TIME OF THE VENETIAN REPUBLIC
When: September 26-27, 2026
Where: Ravenna
Two days to retrace the life and events that took place inside the Venetian fortress in the 1400s.
A historical reenactment to experience an authentic glimpse of life at that time, with three different camps representing the quarters of the foot soldiers, horsemen, and archers.
Particular attention is paid to the reconstruction of fencing techniques, archery, and horse jousting.
The camps are completed by everyday activities, ancient craft shops, street vendors’ stalls, musicians, jesters, nobles, and beggars.
THE FAIR OF SAN ROCCO
When: November 1-8, 2026
Where: Faenza (RA)
An event that brings the fair of a medieval village back to life.
The ancient Fair of San Rocco dates back to the 15th century. It took place for several weeks in early November around the Romanesque bell tower of the Monastery of Santa Maria Foris Portam in Faenza.
Today, the event has been revived, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with activities such as games of arms, duels with bladed weapons, flag games, archery and crossbow competitions, all taking place in a specially set up medieval camp.
Historical re-enactments in the Forlì-Cesena area
A DAY IN THE FORTRESS
When: May 22-24, 2026
Where: Forlimpopoli (FC)
Four days in which the town is catapulted back to the Renaissance.
The event commemorates the 16th-century celebrations for the return of Bruno Il Zampeschi, the husband of the controversial Battistina Savelli, who returned victorious from battle with the Huguenots in France.
A journey through time with flag-wavers, drummers, historical parades, merchants, witches, artisans and charlatans, as well as markets and period dinners at the Hostaria del Pellegrino.
THE DAYS OF THE CAPTAIN
When: July 30 to August 2, 2026
Where: Bagno di Romagna (FC)
Four days to rediscover the traditions of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany.
A Renaissance historical re-enactment that celebrates the arrival of the “Captain” sent by the Medici to govern the valley, with costume parades, shows, flag throwers, the Giostra del Saracino, and the Hosteria del Capitano in the historic center.
PALIO DI SANTA REPARATA
When: September 3-6, 2026
Where: Terra del Sole (FC)
A Palio with a Tuscan flavour.
The Palio di Santa Reparata takes place on the first Sunday in September each year in the ancient city of Terra del Sole. Founded by Cosimo I de’ Medici, the city was part of Tuscany until 1923. During the event, the districts of Borghi Romano and Fiorentino compete in an ancient crossbow shooting competition to win the banner bearing the image of the saint.
The Renaissance historic market and craft fair opens at 10:00 a.m. Lunch can be enjoyed at the tavern inside the Palazzo Pretorio or at the restaurants and taverns within the fortress.
The Palio begins at 4:00 p.m. with a costume parade of 300 participants, followed by tug-of-war competitions and flag games. Finally, there is a challenge between the crossbowmen of the two rival villages.
Palio Di Santa Reparata
Palio Di Santa Reparata via Facebook
Palio Di Santa Reparata via Facebook
Palio Di Santa Reparata via Facebook
GIOSTRA ALL’INCONTRO
When: September 6-13, 2026
Where: Cesena
The time of the knights lives again in Cesena.
This historical event is dedicated to the Palio di Cesena, a tournament in which armoured knights on horseback clashed with lances in an attempt to unhorse each other. Alongside the Giostra all’Incontro, there will be an exhibition on the history of the Giostra, a procession in historical costume to the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Monte, conferences and guided tours, a historical theatrical performance, a flag-waving exhibition and entertainment in the historic centre featuring drummers and trumpeters.
Historical re-enactments in the Rimini area
PROCESSION OF THE JEWS
When: April 3, 2026
Where: Pennabilli (RN)
The Passion of Christ in a village of rare and unique charm.
The setting, dim lighting, sounds and rituals all add to the emotional power of this ancient, sacred night-time re-enactment of Good Friday, known as the Procession of the Jews.
Torches, ancient lanterns and burning braziers are the only sources of light in the entire medieval village, creating a solemn atmosphere for the parade of figures in 16th-century costumes, accompanied by medieval songs and prayers.
PALIO OF THE CAPTAIN OF THE CASTLE
When: August 1, 2026
Where: Misano Adriatico (RN)
Historical reenactment and medieval games.
In Misano Monte, eight districts challenge the Captain of the Castle in parades, team games, and competitions, recreating the atmosphere of the 16th century.
MONTEGRIDOLFO LIBERATA
When: August 7-9, 2026
Where: Montegridolfo (RN)
The most important reenactment event in Italy focused on the Gothic Line.
The commemorative event of the Liberation returns to Montegridolfo as it does every year.
PALIO DE LO DAINO
When: August 20-23, 2026
Where: Mondaino (RN)
Four days to return to the time of the Malatesta and Montefeltro families.
The celebrations commemorate the day in 1459 when Count Federico da Montefeltro and Sigismondo Malatesta, the lord of Rimini, met and established peace between their two territories.
The highlight of the event is the palio, in which the districts of Mondaino — Borgo, Castello, Contado and Montebello — compete to win the coveted title.
There will also be historical reenactment groups, artisans practising ancient crafts, musicians, singers and jugglers, as well as shows and food stalls selling tasty treats.
LEARN MOREPalio del Daino via Facebook
Palio del Daino via Facebook
Palio del Daino via Facebook
Palio del Daino via Facebook
WINE HARVEST RACE
When: September 27, 2026
Where: San Giovanni in Marignano (RN)
A dive into the early 1900s to celebrate the local wine culture.
The historic hamlets of Marignano (Pian di Ventena, Pietra Fitta, La Cattolica, and Monte di Conca), each represented by a couple, compete to win the Palio di Marignano.
The hamlet whose couple manages to produce the largest quantity of must by treading the grapes barefoot in the barrel wins.
Author
You may also like
Between Competition and History: Palios in Emilia-Romagna
by Giulia Delaini /// March 1, 2018
Six Legends and Curiosities You May Not Know About Emilia-Romagna
by Giulia Delaini /// March 9, 2018
Interested in our newsletter?
Every first of the month, an email (in Italian) with selected contents and upcoming events.
Discover Emilia Romagna from above
by Elisa Mazzini /// October 24, 2018
Castles with ghosts in Italy – a thrilling experience in Emilia Romagna
by Elisa Mazzini /// October 22, 2020
Between Competition and History: Palios in Emilia-Romagna
by Giulia Delaini /// March 1, 2018
Six Legends and Curiosities You May Not Know About Emilia-Romagna
by Giulia Delaini /// March 9, 2018
Discover Emilia Romagna from above
by Elisa Mazzini /// October 24, 2018
Castles with ghosts in Italy – a thrilling experience in Emilia Romagna
by Elisa Mazzini /// October 22, 2020