Traveling to Europe and Italy in itself is an incredible experience with its rich culture, gorgeous architecture, unparalleled fashion, and delectable food. When we think of Italy, we often think of the distinctive sites and attractions like the Roman Colosseum, pasta from Florence, and the gondolas of Venice. These incredible attractions seem like scenes from a dream or a fairytale; however, if you want to have an even richer experience with the people and culture of Italy, here are some of Italy’s best Festivals to travel for!

Carnevale—February and March

This amusing construct of creativity and brilliance was originally conceived to celebrate the lavish days before lent. However, it has now become an iconic artistic expression for Italy. Enjoy this incredible and rich cultural event with festivities that include masquerade balls, concerts, parades, horse-races, a bit of mischief and fireworks! Venice is probably the best known celebration for its masquerade balls and couture costumes. However, carnival is celebrated country wide and in diverse ways fit for any cultural taste! Individuals across the country spend hours creating masquerade costumes with headdresses full of intricate detail, and gowns or suits with fun textures and vibrant colors. Visitors are welcome to take photos with these colorful characters that parade around the plaza. In the northwestern region of Italy, Pont St. Martin you can join the locals as they celebrate dressed as characters of folklore and you can watch as individuals participate in chariot races or cultural re-enactments! And if you like allegories you can attend one of the many compelling parades in Sicily, as their caravans usually include flower and allegorical paper-mache floats that leave crowds of spectators in splendid awe and wonder!

The Artichoke Festival, Ladispoli —April

This lively Italian festival is centered on the Rome artichoke! The festival’s purpose was to popularize this lovely vegetable which has been proudly cultivated in Ladispoli for years. You can join the community as they celebrate the artichoke with art, and sculptures made of the native plant. Enjoy artichoke delicacies from local restaurants as they have special menus for this festive occasion! At the end of the festival you can watch a stunning fireworks show or walk along the gorgeous black sand beaches!

I Madonnari, Santa Barbara—May

If you appreciate the arts, this is your chance to see creative art enthusiasts come together to display their limited edition street art as they support a good cause! Using chalk pastels artists of all styles display their creations across an asphalt canvas to raise money for the Children’s Creative Project. This project is a nonprofit arts education program that serves over 100 schools and more than 50,000 children. Though admission to the festival is free, artists and sponsors purchase block space for their incredible chalk paintings. Stroll along these beautiful images of cultural figures, animals and colorful designs then head over to the adjacent italian market which is full of a fabulous array of souvenirs and delicious country cuisine!

Eurochocolate, Perugia —October

Italians are known for their exquisite cuisine but during this Italian festival they celebrate the discovery of chocolate which originates from the Americas. However, you will find that Italy makes this fantastic and delicious festival her own by taking chocolate with a twist! This delightful Italian festival is for all chocolate fans and art lovers alike! During the celebration, artists chisel, from human sized blocks of pure chocolate, incredible sweet-sculptures that will excite the palate. As they are creating original works, these artists,will toss chocolate chips to nearby spectators making the experience both fascinating and engaging! So be ready to catch a chocolate chunk that will surely melt in your mouth!

Oh Bej Oh Bej, Milan—December

If you love a holiday sale you may enjoy strolling through the Christmas market in Milan which is full of wooden ornaments, Christmas puppets, crafted pottery, and intricate trinkets, all made by local artisans. This fun festive market takes place just outside Castello Sforzesco, a gorgeous 15th-century castle that will leave you feeling like you’ve walked into a fairytale! The market streets are filled with the smell of freshly made italian scones and pastries that will leave your tastebuds satisfied. Along with Christmas treats and trinkets you may find the perfect addition to your own Italian presepe, which means “cradle”. These special Italian nativities are adorned with all sorts of exquisite carvings and figurines that emphasize the beauty of the Christmas story. You may also want to attend a special church service before leaving Milan at the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio, one of the oldest churches in the city!

Post Written by Rachel Allred