Leisure: Festivals & Events
Le Marche, a region in central Italy, has a rich history that is celebrated through various festivals and events. These history-themed festivals in Le Marche offer visitors a chance to step back in time and immerse themselves in the region's rich historical heritage. They showcase the traditions, costumes, and activities of different eras, bringing history to life and providing an unforgettable experience for both locals and tourists.
To get the most accurate and up-to-date information about the Festivals, we recommend checking with local tourism offices, the official websites or the event calendar of the town. or checking the official municipality’s website or social media channels of the town's tourism board or organizing committee. They will be able to provide you with the most relevant details regarding the festival including the dates, schedule, and specific events happening during the festival.
Here below is a list of the more popular history-themed festivals and events for each of the five provinces of Le Marche:
Feast of the Duke in Urbino, province of Pesaro & Urbino
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The Feast of the Duke (Festa del Duca) is an annual event celebrated in Urbino, province of Pesaro and Urbino, Marche.. The festival commemorates the life and legacy of Federico da Montefeltro, the Duke of Urbino, who played a significant role in shaping the city's cultural and artistic heritage during the Renaissance. The Feast of the Duke typically takes place in late August or early September and lasts for several days. It features a series of events, including historical reenactments, parades, concerts, art exhibitions, and various cultural activities. The festival aims to transport visitors back to the time of the Renaissance and offers a glimpse into the rich history and artistic achievements of Urbino During the celebration, the city's historic centre comes alive with music, traditional costumes, and performances. Visitors can also explore exhibitions that showcase art and artifacts from the Renaissance period, offering a deeper understanding of Urbino's cultural significance.
Palio della rana in Fermignano, province of Pesaro & Urbino
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The "Palio della Rana" (Palio of the Frog) is indeed a traditional event celebrated in Fermignano, province of Pesaro and Urbino. The Palio della Rana is a historical and lively festival that typically takes place on the last Sunday of April. The highlight of the event is a unique race where participants compete by pushing small wooden carts with a frog-shaped statue on top. The carts are pushed along a designated track, and the winner is determined by the frog that reaches the finish line first. The origins of the Palio della Rana date back to the 17th century and are rooted in the local agricultural and hunting traditions. It was initially a competition among hunters to showcase their skills in catching frogs, and over time it evolved into a symbolic race involving the wooden carts. The festival also includes a colourful parade through the streets of Fermignano, featuring participants dressed in historical costumes and traditional attire. There are food stalls offering local delicacies, music performances, and various cultural activities for visitors to enjoy. The Palio della Rana attracts both locals and visitors who come to witness the excitement of the race, immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, and experience the unique traditions of Fermignano.
Contesa Del Pozzo della Polenta festival in Corinaldo, province of Ancona
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The "Contesa del Pozzo della Polenta" festival takes place in Corinaldo province of Ancona. The Contesa del Pozzo della Polenta is an annual event held in Corinaldo, usually in August. The festival is a reenactment of an old tradition and celebrates the local culinary heritage of the town. During the festival, participants dress in traditional costumes and compete in various games and challenges, all cantered around a large pot of polenta, a traditional Italian cornmeal dish. The main highlight of the event is the contest to stir the polenta, where participants use long wooden paddles to mix and cook the polenta in a large cauldron. The festival also features live music performances, dancing, local food stalls, and cultural exhibitions. Visitors have the opportunity to taste the polenta and other traditional dishes, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and experience the local traditions of Corinaldo.
The Festival of San Nicola in Tolentino, province of Macerata
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The festival of San Nicola is an annual religious festival held in Tolentino, a town in the province of Macerata. San Nicola is the patron saint of Tolentino, and the festival is celebrated in his honour. The festival typically takes place on September 10th, which is the feast day of San Nicola, but the festivities often extend over several days. The highlight of the festival is a religious procession that winds through the streets of Tolentino. During the procession, a statue of San Nicola is carried through the town, accompanied by music, prayers, and traditional religious rituals The festival also includes various cultural and entertainment events, such as concerts, exhibitions, and performances. There are often food stalls where you can sample local specialties, and the atmosphere is festive and lively.
Corsa della Spada (Race of the Sword) in Camerino, province of Macerata
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The Corsa della Spada, also known as the "Race of the Sword," is a historic and symbolic event that commemorates the liberation of Camerino from a siege by Perugia in the 14th century. The event typically takes place in late August or early September. During the Corsa della Spada, participants dressed in historical costumes reenact the events of the liberation. The main highlight of the event is a race where runners compete through the streets of Camerino, carrying a sword as a symbolic representation of the liberation. The race is accompanied by music, cheering spectators, and a festive atmosphere. The event attracts locals and visitors who come to witness the spectacle, support the runners, and immerse themselves in the historical ambiance of Camerino. In addition to the Corsa della Spada, Camerino may also hold other festivities, such as processions, exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events, during this period.
Disfida del Bracciale Treia, province of Macerata
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The "Disfida del Bracciale" is a traditional event that takes place in Treia, a town located in the province of Macerata. The Disfida del Bracciale is a historic competition that dates back several centuries. It is a form of an ancient game that involves two teams competing against each other to score points by throwing a wooden bracelet through a specific target. The teams consist of players who represent their respective districts or neighbourhoods in Treia. The event typically takes place in July and attracts a large crowd of spectators who come to cheer for their teams and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The competition is accompanied by music, parades, and various cultural activities. The Disfida del Bracciale is not only a sports competition but also a way for the community to come together and celebrate local traditions and pride. It is a significant event in Treia's cultural calendar and holds great importance for the town's history and heritage.
Palio dell ‘Assunta in Fermo, province of Fermo
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"Palio dell ‘Assunta" is a traditional festival that takes place in Fermo, Italy. Fermo is a town in the Marche region, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The Palio dell ‘Assunta is held annually on August 15th, the day of the Assumption of Mary. It is a historical and lively event that involves a horse race and various festivities. The festival dates back several centuries and is deeply rooted in the local traditions of Fermo. During the Palio dell ‘Assunta, riders from different neighbourhoods of Fermo compete in a thrilling horse race, representing their respective districts. The race takes place in the historic center of the town, where a track is specially prepared for the event. The atmosphere is vibrant and festive, with the streets adorned with flags and decorations. The Palio dell ‘Assunta also includes parades, music, traditional costumes, and cultural performances. It is a celebration that brings together locals and visitors alike to witness the excitement of the race and enjoy the festive ambiance.
"Feste delle Cove" in Petritoli, province of Fermo
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The "Feste delle Cove" is a festival celebrated in Petritoli ,province of Fermo. The Feste delle Cove is a traditional festival held in Petritoli to honour and celebrate the local agricultural heritage, particularly the harvest of olives and the production of olive oil. The festival usually takes place in late October or early November when the olive harvest is underway. During the Feste delle Cove, visitors can experience a range of activities and events that showcase the olive-related traditions of the region. This may include olive picking demonstrations, olive oil tastings, traditional food stalls offering local dishes and specialties, live music performances, cultural exhibitions, and various forms of entertainment. The festival provides an opportunity to learn about the olive-growing process, sample high-quality olive oil, and immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions of Petritoli.
La Contesa del Secchio, province of Fermo
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The "La Contesa del Secchio" is a historical reenactment festival that takes place in Fermo, Le Marche, Italy. This event commemorates a medieval conflict between the families of Fermo. The festival reenacts the dispute between the noble families of De Tomasi and De Vinti, focusing on the legend of a water bucket that led to a battle between the two families in the main square of the city.
During this festival, participants dress in medieval costumes, representing the two rival families, and engage in various activities and performances to recreate the historic quarrel. The event includes a parade, flag-throwing competitions, archery contests, theatrical performances, and live music, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich historical and cultural heritage of the region. The festival aims to preserve and celebrate the city's history, attracting locals and tourists interested in experiencing the medieval past of Fermo.
The Giostra dell'Anello di Serviglaino Torneo, province of Fermo
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The Giostra dell'Anello di Serviglaino Torneo cavalleresco Castel Clementino is an annual medieval jousting tournament held at Castel Clementino, steeped in historical tradition and cultural significance. Set against the backdrop of the majestic castle, the event features knights competing in various challenges, including the iconic ring jousting, where they gallop on horseback, aiming to spear small rings with their lances. With colorful pageantry, period costumes, and demonstrations of medieval weaponry, the tournament offers a captivating glimpse into Italy's rich medieval heritage, fostering community involvement and providing educational opportunities while celebrating the values of honor, courage, and chivalry that defined the era.
Festival of Duca Sponsalio in Acquaviva Picena, province of Ascoli Piceno
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The Festival of Duca Sponsalio in Acquaviva Picena is a traditional event held in Acquaviva Picena, a town located in Southern province of Ascoli Piceno. . The festival is known for its historical reenactments, pageantry, and festivities. During the festival, participants dress in elaborate period costumes to recreate a historical event related to the marriage ("sponsalio") of the Duke ("Duca"). The festival aims to showcase the cultural heritage of the region and provide an immersive experience for visitors. Typically, the festival includes a parade featuring participants in medieval attire, floats, music, and dancing. The main highlight of the event is the reenactment of the marriage ceremony, where actors portray the Duke and his bride in a historically inspired setting. The Festival of Duca Sponsalio in Acquaviva Picena attracts both locals and tourists who are interested in experiencing the rich history and traditions of the region. It's an opportunity to immerse oneself in the past and witness the grandeur of a bygone era.
The Quintana in Ascoli Piceno, province of Ascoli Piceno
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The Quintana Festival is a historical reenactment event that takes place in the city of Ascoli Piceno.. It commemorates the medieval jousting tournaments that were held during the Middle Ages in the city. The festival typically occurs in July and lasts for several days, attracting thousands of visitors from Italy and around the world. It is one of the most significant events in the region and offers a unique experience for history enthusiasts and tourists alike. During the Quintana Festival, participants dress in medieval costumes and engage in various activities and performances that recreate the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. The highlight of the festival is the jousting tournament, which takes place in the historic Piazza del Popolo, the main square of Ascoli Piceno. The tournament involves ten knights, each representing a specific district of the city. The knights compete against each other in a series of jousts, attempting to hit a target with a lance while riding on horseback. The competition is not only about skill but also about representing their district with honour and pride. In addition to the jousting tournament, the festival features parades, music, dancing, flag-throwing performances, and various historical reenactments.
La Notte Dei Templari (Night of the Templars) in Castignano, province of Ascoli Piceno
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"La Notte dei Templari" is indeed a festival that takes place in Castignano,a small town in province of Ascoli Piceno. This event is organized by the municipality of Castignano, "La Notte dei Templari" translates to "The Night of the Templars" and is a historical reenactment that celebrates the medieval period and the presence of the Knights Templar in the area. The festival usually takes place in August, but I don't have the specific dates as my knowledge cutoff is in September 2021.During the festival, the town of Castignano is transformed into a medieval village, and participants dress in medieval costumes. The event features parades, historical reenactments, music, and various performances that showcase the life and activities of the Knights Templar. Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere, taste local food and drinks, and immerse themselves in the historical ambiance of the festival.
The Festival “del Bove Finto” (Festival of the fake Ox) in Offida, province of Ascoli Piceno
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The "Festival del Bove Finto" is a traditional festival held in Offida, province of Ascoli Piceno. It is a popular event that takes place annually in late July. The Festival del Bove Finto, which translates to "Festival of the Fake Ox," is a historical reenactment that dates back to the 17th century. The festival celebrates the agricultural traditions of the region and involves a symbolic procession featuring a life-sized papier-mâché ox. During the festival, locals dress in traditional costumes and participate in a grand parade through the streets of Offida. The centrepiece of the procession is the fake ox, which is crafted with meticulous detail and carried by a team of men. The procession is accompanied by traditional music, dancing, and performances. The festival culminates with a lively and festive atmosphere in Offida's main square. Visitors can enjoy local delicacies, traditional dances, music performances, and various forms of entertainment. It's a vibrant celebration that offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage and traditions of the region.
Cavallo di Fuoco festival (Fiery Horse) in Ripatransone, province of Ascoli Piceno
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The Fiery Horse festival is a traditional event that occurs annually in Ripatransone, province of Ascoli Piceno on the first Sunday in August. The festival features a unique and captivating display of fireworks combined with a horse race. During the event, riders race through the streets of the town on their horses, carrying torches that are lit with fire. The spectacle of the illuminated horses and the fireworks creates a mesmerizing and exhilarating atmosphere. The origins of the Fiery Horse festival date back to the 16th century when it was introduced as a celebration to mark the end of the harvest season. Today, it has become a cherished tradition in Ripatransone, attracting visitors from near and far who come to witness the thrilling spectacle and experience the festive ambiance.
l'Infiorata in Montefiore dell’Aso, province of Ascoli Piceno
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"L'Infiorata" is indeed a traditional event celebrated in Montefiore dell'Aso, a town in the province of Ascoli Piecno. L'Infiorata is a vibrant and colourful festival that typically takes place in June. During this event, the streets of Montefiore dell'Aso are adorned with intricate floral carpets, created by local artists and volunteers. These carpets are made by meticulously arranging flower petals and other natural materials to form beautiful and intricate designs. The festival typically starts with the preparation of the flower carpets, where the streets are marked and covered with moistened sand or another suitable material. Then, the artists work diligently to create stunning designs and patterns using a variety of flowers and petals. Once the carpets are complete, there is a procession where people walk along the streets, admiring the floral artworks. The event also includes music, performances, food stalls, and other festive activities that contribute to the lively atmosphere.
L'Infiorata in Montefiore dell'Aso is a wonderful opportunity to witness the creativity, craftsmanship, and beauty of floral art. It attracts both locals and visitors who come to experience the unique and ephemeral spectacle created by the flower carpets.