There are many small festivals throughout Italy in August, and plenty where you can sample great inexpensive regional food. There are medieval festivals, and also many outdoor music performances.

When traveling to Italy in August, there are some things to remember while planning your stay.
August 15, Ferragosto (Assumption Day), is a national holiday so many businesses and shops will be closed. You'll find celebrations in many places in Italy on this day and the days before and after, often including music, food, and fireworks. In some big cities like Rome and Milan, however, the city will empty out as Italians leave the city for the beaches and mountains. August is a good month to visit these cities as as crowds are fewer, but check specific places you may want to visit first to make sure they are open.

Tuscan Sun Festival is 9 days of music, art, cuisine, wine, and wellness in Cortona, Tuscany, starting the first weekend in August. The Tuscan Sun Festival gathers well known artists from the classical music world. The program also includes lectures on wellness and cooking demonstrations, art exhibitions, pre-concert receptions with locally made products and a wide range of Tuscan wines. More information at Tuscan Sun Festival web site.

Corso del Palio - The second round of the famous Palio in Sienna is August 16 (the first race was July 2). 10 of Sienna's 17 contrade, districts, compete in an exciting bareback horse race around Sienna's central piazza, filled with thousands of spectators. There will also be festivities and parades in the days prior to the race. Sienna will be very crowded around the time of the Palio. More information at Palio web site.

You'll find outdoor music performances in many cities and towns, usually in the main piazza, and summer opera in Verona is in full swing.

Read more about these and many other August Festivals in Italy,

Looking for festivals in Italy for other months? Check Festival Listings by Month.

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