Italy events for autumn 2018
A chance to avoid the crowds while you enjoy a warm welcome and welcoming climate, autumn in Italy is simply perfect. A host of amazing activities and plenty of scenic beauty, here are 9 autumn events in Italy.
The Eurochocolate Festival, Perugia: 19-28 October
The sweetest break awaits in Umbria. The town’s square is taken over by every type of chocolate you can think of (and probably a few you can’t!).
There will be chocolate sculptures, events and workshops, shows and dancing and, of course, plenty of chocolate to eat. For a truly indulgent autumn, a break in Perugia will take some beating.
Halloween in Lucca, Tuscany: 28-30 October
The relaxed pace of Italy in autumn doesn’t often get the pulse racing, but everyone deserves at least one good scare at Halloween, and few places do it as well as Borgo a Mozzano in Lucca.
A veritable fright festival takes place from 28 to 31 October. Thousands of people gather to watch spooky re-enactments like Night of the Lucida, a dramatic procession based around the legend of a wealthy noblewoman. It culminates at the town’s ‘Devil’s Bridge’ with fireworks and more!
Sagra del Tordo, Montalcino, Tuscany: 27-28 October
The historic Tuscan hill town of Montalcino is perfect for taking a trip back in time, but in the last weekend of October it offers the real deal with a brilliant medieval festival.
Celebrating its 60th year, the Sagra del Tordo offers music and a procession, culminating in an archery contest between four of its districts. The winner receives a silver arrow, which opens the door to festivities throughout winter. With amazing locally produced food and wine to enjoy, it’s a perfect way to welcome the winter!
Acqualagna Truffle Fair, the Marches: 28 October- 11 November
A hidden holiday gem, the town of Acqualagna offers lots of local charm, but is also provides the majority of Italy’s truffles.
For over 50 years this fact has been celebrated in autumn with the Truffle Fair. Cooking displays and exhibitors, thousands of foreign visitors, food, wine and good times – it’s a perfect autumn fun for foodies!
Lucca Comics and Games Festival, Tuscany: 31 October – November
With Halloween out of the way, you can spend five days enjoying one of the world’s biggest comic and video game festivals in Tuscany.
The line-up is phenomenal with Robert Kirkman, creator of The Walking Dead, stars of Game of Thrones and Buffy and more. Funko will also be bringing their Pop! Vinyl figures – including some Lucca Festival exclusives!
Merano Wine Festival, South Tyrol: 9-13 November
Known for its spa resorts and amazing Alpine setting, the town of Merrano also offers one of the premier celebrations of the finest food and wine.
Merano’s Wine Festival takes over the town with loads of tasting events and opportunities to enjoy food and drink in an amazing autumnal setting.
Barezzi Festival, Parma, Emilia Romagna: 21-24 November
Summer may be music festival season in the UK, but over in Italy you can enjoy some of the finest events with an amazing autumnal backdrop in Parma.
Encouraging crossover and a fusion of musical styles, the Barezzi Festival offers performances by Anna Calvi, Nils Frahm, Villagers, Paolo Conte and more amongst many gorgeous theatres and performance spaces.
Festival of the Madonna della Salute, Venice: 21 November
Commemorating a religious procession through Venice in the 17th Century, this festival offers a temporary bridge over the Grand Canal.
Visitors cross the canal to the Santa Maria della Salute church with candlelight, and the day is marked with vendors selling cakes, sweets and more!
Matera, European Capital of Culture 2019
A unique and beautiful town in Italy’s south, all eyes will be on Matera in Southern Italy when it becomes the European Capital of Culture in 2019. But you can beat the crowds and explore in the atmospheric autumn and wintertime.
The mild climate and sparseness makes it a great time to visit. Explore the ancient hilltop city with its cave dwellings and large caverns, winding streets and historical settlements. There are plenty of festive events to enjoy too with a Christmas market, ice rink and more.
