What To Do In Italy This Summer

copyright 2012 Art of Living,PrimaMedia,Inc/Maria Liberati
Editor: Brianne Wetovick
The opening ceremonies for the 2012 Olympic Games are only about a week away now, and excitement is growing. But if you didn’t get your tickets for the games, and still want to get away before the rest of the summer gets away from you, don’t worry. there’s plenty to do still!
Italy has some amazing opportunities for you, and many for the entire family. Summer festivals are happening in many places on the weekends, so look around!
Venice will be throwing a party with fireworks and a parade this weekend for Redentore Church Feast Day. Guidecca Island will be a surefire hotspot as the parade will feature decorated boats. Don’t miss it!

(photo credit: www.europe-autos.com)
Fivizzano in northern Tuscany will be holding it’s annual Disfida degli Arceri di Terra e di Corte. A fun, medieval weekend filled with an archery tournament, flag throwing and costumes.

(photo credits: www.crwflags.com)
Medieval frippery not your style? Head to Rome the last two weeks of July for the Festa de’Nontari street fair in the Trastevere District. The end of July also brings with it an international fashion show. Donne Sotte Le Stelle will be held at the Spanish Steps. I might have to check into that one…
If you’re looking for a more laid-back weekend, The last Sunday of July is the Feast of Sant’Andrea the Apostle in Pescara. Take in the parade of fishing boats off the coast to celebrate the feast day. Or you can wait till August 15th and celebrate Ferragosto on the beach

And coming up in August…Il Palio in Sienna. Piazza del Campo will be the setting for the famous horse race. August 16 is the date, so make your plans now. A procession heralds the beginning, and medieval costumes will be on display once again. Maybe you’ll be able to snag some of the coveted reserved seating if you hurry!
Whether it’s music, fashion, or a simpler village celebration or feast day, Italy has so much to offer you this summer. Look and ask around, and you might be able to make some amazing summer memories.
 
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For more travel and recipes in Italy get your copy of The Basic Art of Italian Cooking: Holidays & Special Occasions-2nd edition

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