Gioco del Ponte (Game of the Bridge) is an annual historical event held in Pisa, Italy, typically on the last Sunday of June. The festival is a traditional and fierce contest between two districts of the city, Santa Maria and San Francesco, and involves a tug-of-war-like battle where teams of participants, dressed in historical costumes, compete to push a heavy cart across Ponte di Mezzo (the central bridge of Pisa). The event is preceded by a colorful procession featuring participants in Renaissance-era costumes, music, and flag-waving. The Gioco del Ponte is a vibrant celebration of Pisa’s rich history, combining sport, tradition, and pageantry.
Start with a quick trip form. Weekend in Pisa or a Tuscany route—we’ll plan the Arno-side parade, prime bridge-side viewing, smart timing & crowd routes, and a walkable stay along the Lungarni.
Prefer to talk it through? Book a free intro call.
DATES & TIMES
• Event day (2025): Saturday, June 28, 2025. Official city listing.
• Key timings (2025): 6:00 PM armed pickets assemble; 6:15 PM judges’ procession; 7:00 PM historical parade (“Mostra”) along the Lungarni; around 9:00 PM the bridge battle begins. Official timing note.
• The event traditionally takes place on the last Saturday of June (date varies by year). Official overview.
LOCATION
• Pisa, Italy — the battle takes place on Ponte di Mezzo, with the parade on the Lungarni (riverfront streets) along the Arno. Open Ponte di Mezzo in Google Maps.
• Expect multiple gathering points around nearby squares and riverbanks; follow local signage and official notices on event day. City listing.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Public viewing from the Lungarni and nearby areas is generally free (space is first-come, first-served). Official overview.
• Grandstand seating (when offered) is ticketed: in 2025, tickets were €5 and sold via Teatro Verdi’s box office on June 24–25 (limited quantities per day). Official ticket details.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Arrive early if you want a good sightline for the 7:00 PM parade or the 9:00 PM battle—riverfront space fills quickly. Official event note.
• Road and parking restrictions are common around Ponte di Mezzo on event day; check official traffic notices before you arrive. City listing (traffic links).
• If you’re planning ahead for a future year, a local calendar example lists the event window as late afternoon through late evening (e.g., 4:00 PM–11:00 PM in a 2026 listing). Regional calendar listing.
Tell us your dates, who’s coming, and what else you’d like to see. We’ll suggest a Tuscany route that includes the Gioco del Ponte at the right moment, with realistic travel days and comfortable home bases.
Prefer to start with a call? Book a free intro call.