Palio delle contrade race and Giostra della Stella jousting in Bagno a Ripoli
Folk traditions
Back in Bagno a Ripoli on Sunday September 13 2026 is the Giostra della Stella, the tournament played by four knights, each representing a district; the competition field is located in the “Silvano Nano Campeggi” garden, on via Roma 91, at the end of the historical parade that will wind through the city streets starting at 8:30pm.
The Giostra della Stella consists of spearing the central hole of a star held by a rampant lion with a lance while galloping. To compete, you need quick reflexes and a fast horse; moreover, the level of difficulty increases as the diameter of the star's hole decreases.
At the centre of the track, where the Giostra takes place, the contradaioli who took part in the parade in Renaissance costumes stand, accompanied by musicians and flag-wavers from the Palio and guest historical groups.
The Palio also includes afternoon competitions starting at 3:30pm, in which the four districts compete to accumulate points in events such as tug-of-war, egg and spoon races, sack races, hoop races and cart races.
All updates on the programme will be available on the Giostra della Stella Facebook page.
