.: ITINERARIES & EVENTS
The Palio is without a doubt the most representative event of local tradition. But many other events take place nearby at various time of year. Some are based on religious scenes and atmospheres connected with the life of Jesus, such as the "Living Crib" and the "Historical Pageant" which take place at Casole d'Elsa.
Some traditional folk festivals are held in the surrounding villages, including the "Fiera dell'Alberaia" in Molino d'Elsa near Pievescola where the "Mushroom Festival" also takes place. At Mensano, there are moments of authentic entertainment, such as the "Donkey Palio" and the inebriating atmosphere of the "Grape-picking Festival".
As well as a typical Tuscan dinner you can also enjoy various wines at "Goblets under the stars", an event held at Monteguidi to mark St Lorenzo's day.
Palio of Casole d'Elsa - This is a mounted horse race which is held every year on the second Sunday of July at 6.30 p.m. in honour of St Isidoro.
Living Crib - This is held every two years at Casole d'Elsa (the last edition took place on 28th December 2005). The next will be held in 2007.
Historical Pageant - This is held every three years on the Friday before Easter at 9.30 p.m..
Fiera dell'Alberaia - This is held during the last weekend of August in Molino d'Elsa, a village near Pievescola, and features an interesting exhibition of agricultural equipment and a wide variety of cattle. It features a wide variety of "cinta senese", locally produced cured meats from herds of pigs which live and eat in the wild, just as they did in mediaeval times. There are also many types of cheese produced in our local dairies which go perfectly with the various types of honey produced by our beekeepers and an excellent wine.
Mushroom Festival - This is held in Pievescola, a village near Casole d'Elsa, during the second and third weekends of September.
The Donkey Palio - Held during the weekend nearest to 8th September. This event has been "untouchable" for some time, due both to its historical roots and to its contagious atmosphere of convulsive laughing brought on by the notoriously stubborn behaviour of the donkeys.
Grape-picking Festival - Held at Mensano at the end of September/beginning of October, for wine lovers.
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