Events Not to Miss in September 2024 in Tuscany and Umbria
September is a magical time to visit Tuscany and Umbria, with the harvest season in full swing and a plethora of cultural and food festivals celebrating the region’s rich heritage. Below is a roundup of some of the top events you should consider when planning your trip:
**Antique Fair, Arezzo (August 31 and September 1)**: For antique lovers, Arezzo’s famous antique fair is not to be missed. It’s Italy’s oldest and largest market of its kind, transforming the historic town into a treasure trove of rare finds.
**Cacio al Fuso Cheese Festival, Pienza (up to September 1st)**: In the stunning town of Pienza, this festival celebrates the famous Pecorino cheese with tastings, competitions, and plenty of delicious food.
**Giostra del Saracino, Arezzo (September 1st)**: This medieval jousting competition pits the four quarters of Arezzo against each other in an exciting contest of skill and bravery. Held in the beautiful Piazza Grande, this is a key highlight of the month. https://giostradelsaracinoarezzo.it/anno-giostresco/
**Cannara Onion Festival (September 3 to 8 and 10 to 15)**: This unique festival honors the humble onion with a variety of dishes, from onion soups to stuffed onions. It’s an absolute must for food lovers.
**Pan Opera Festival, Panicale (up to September 22)**: Opera enthusiasts will love this festival, set in the beautiful village of Panicale, offering a season of stunning performances. https://www.tmusike.it/pan-opera-festival/
**Live Rock Festival, Acquaviva (September4th-8th)**: This dynamic festival brings together top international rock bands for a weekend of live performances in the scenic Montepulciano area. https://www.liverockfestival.it/
**Festa dell’Uva, Panicale, Perugia (September 6,7 and 8)**: Celebrate the grape harvest in the charming village of Panicale, at 5 minutes drive from il Fontanaro’s villas.
** Wine Festival, Enologica, Montefalco (September 6 to 8)**: The event dedicated to wine paired with food, art and music organized by the Consorzio Tutela Vini Montefalco and La Strada del Sagrantino. The protagonists will be the great wines of the Montefalco and Spoleto area, among excellent gastronomy, music and art.
** Paciano, Perugia, September 8**: Mille e Una Umbria. A Thousand and One Flavors of Umbria: Discovering Paciano in September 🌿✨. Join us in the heart of Umbria this September for Mille e Una Umbria—an unforgettable celebration of flavors, culture, and tradition. Explore local cuisine, arts, and the vibrant spirit of Paciano! From the morning to the late evening.
** Rapolano, Siena: 6 September 2024 – 8 September 2024 The Beer Village is our favorite beer festival that takes place every year in the Sienese countryside. They have reached the 18th edition (the age of majority!)
**Rificolona Festival, Florence (September 7th)**: Celebrate this traditional Florentine festival where the streets are illuminated by colorful paper lanterns. Originating in the 12th century, the festival marks the Virgin Mary’s birth and has become one of the city’s most beloved events.
**Chianti Classico Expo, Greve in Chianti (September 5th-8th)**: Head to the heart of Tuscany’s wine region to taste the best Chianti Classico wines, explore wine stalls, and enjoy local food, music, and entertainment.
**Palio della Balestra, Sansepolcro (September 1, 2 and 4,5,6, 7 and 8 )**: Witness a centuries-old tradition as crossbowmen from Sansepolcro compete in this exciting tournament. The town’s medieval atmosphere adds to the charm.
**Assedio alla Villa, Poggio a Caiano (September 13th-15th)**: This historical reenactment brings the 16th-century “Siege of the Villa” to life, featuring costumed performers, period music, and market stalls.
**Panzano Wine Festival (September 13th-15th)**: Between Chianti Classico and IGT, you will have the opportunity to taste over 80 exceptional wines from the 23 wineries of the Viticoltori Union. An unmissable opportunity for all lovers of good wine!
**Giostra della Quintana, Foligno (September 14th-15th)**: This thrilling jousting competition is steeped in baroque tradition. Visitors can also enjoy the accompanying festival with period costumes, music, and food.
**Festa di San Michele, Carmignano (September 24th-29th)**: The town of Carmignano comes alive with vibrant parades, flag-waving, and other traditional events in honor of its patron saint, San Michele.
***** The goose festival at Montepulciano Stazione – September 21 and 22 and 27, 28, 29 and 30. This popular food festival is an annual event not to miss to taste some of the most traditional Tuscan dishes!
*****Sunday 22 of September at il Fontanaro – our family and friends annual harvest!
grape harvest at il fontanaro
**Festa dell’Uva, Vagliagli (September 28th-30th)**: Celebrate the grape harvest in the charming village of Vagliagli. This festival is dedicated to Chianti wine, with tastings, live music, and local delicacies.
**Festa dell’Uva, Chiusi, Siena (September20-29)**: Celebrate the grape harvest in the charming village of Chiusi. https://www.festadelluvaedelvino.com/
**** Foligno, 26 to 29 of September, I primi d’Italia, a food festival based of first courses from Italy. https://www.iprimiditalia.it/
These events showcase the diverse cultural and culinary heritage of Tuscany and Umbria. Whether you’re drawn to the historical pageantry, gourmet festivals, or lively music events, September offers something special for every traveler. Make sure to plan ahead and immerse yourself in the heart of these stunning regions.
