The Palio di Siena is a historic and thrilling horse race held twice a year, on July 2 and August 16, in the city of Siena, Italy. The race takes place in the Piazza del Campo, a large medieval square, where riders from various contrade (neighborhoods) compete for victory. Each contrada has its own unique identity and traditions, and the event is a source of intense local pride. The race itself is fast and chaotic, with jockeys riding bareback around the square in a battle for supremacy. The Palio is more than just a race—it’s a major cultural event filled with parades, historical reenactments, and vibrant celebrations, deeply rooted in Siena’s history and its sense of community. The winner of the race is awarded the Palio, a painted silk banner, and gains immense prestige for their contrada.
DATES & TIMES
• Race days (2026): Thursday, 2 July (Palio di Provenzano) & Sunday, 16 August (Palio dell’Assunta).
• Four‑day programme: 29 June–2 July and 13–16 August — horse selection (tratta), twice‑daily trials, and pre‑race ceremonies. Overview.
• Historic Parade & race: On race day, the Corteo Storico processes through the city into Piazza del Campo in late afternoon, followed by the race in the early evening (exact times published each year). Typical timetable · Learn more.
LOCATION
• Piazza del Campo, Siena — the racecourse is laid with tufo (packed earth) around the square’s perimeter.
• Open in Google Maps.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Standing in the centre of the Piazza is free for trials and the Palio (very crowded; arrive hours early; once closed, exits are restricted). Visitor tips.
• Grandstands, balconies & windows are privately owned. The Municipality does not run a public box office; information and contacts for private owners are listed in the official pocket guide (email: palchi.paliodisiena@gmail.com). Official pocket guide (PDF).
GOOD TO KNOW
• Key moments: Tratta (horse allocation) on 29 June & 13 August morning; six trial runs over four days (morning & evening); Prova Generale (final evening trial) the day before; race day Corteo Storico then the Palio. Typical schedule.
• Delays & weather: Signals from Palazzo Pubblico: white flag = postponed; green flag = cancelled (e.g., due to rain). See guide.
• Practical tips: Bring water/hat; once barriers close, you may not exit the central area until after the race. Read tips.
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