September and October are two very important months for the agriculture in Tuscany as in this period there are the harvest of grapes, one of the outstanding Tuscan products, and chestnuts picking.
It must be said that this year has been very critical for the agriculture in Tuscany: the scarce rains of the Summer have put a strain on the land and therefore all its fruits.
Therefore there is a great expectation for the grape harvest (and the new wine), chestnuts and mushrooms on this Autumn and, according to experts, the production will probably be smaller but of excellent quality.
We’re exciting to celebrate these delicious products of Tuscany and in a few days will begin a series of dedicated events, that is really worth not to miss!
Grapes and new wine
This Saturday, September 29th in the historical center of Florence arrives the Carro Matto (literally “crazy cart”) which is a large cart pulled a pair of white Chianina oxen, that carries more a thousand of wine bottles from the Florentine countryside. This event commemorates the traditional presentation to the government in Palazzo Vecchio of the new wine produced in the countryside of Florence.
The Carro Matto arrives in Piazza Duomo about at 4pm. For the occasion, there will also be a beautiful flag throwers show and the whole ceremony ends in the late afternoon in Piazza Signoria. This a charming event truly recommended!
On 30 September, starting at 3pm, the Carro Matto and other events related to grape and wine continue in Rufina, a town near Florence, within the Bacco Artigiano Festival.
In Impruneta on Sunday September 30 will be held the involving Grape Festival. The event will start at 3pm in the main square of the village where you can assist at the traditional float parade organized by the 4 city districts.
In Portoferraio (Elba Island) on September 28 -30 the four quarters of the town will partecipate in several competitions on the theme of harvest (by pressing the run of barrels) during the traditional Grape Festival. All visitors can enjoy many events, music and good typical products at food stands located in the city.
Chestnuts
Chestnuts, marroni chestnuts and wood products are the protagonists of several Festivals organized in Mugello. Do not miss the big Festivals scheduled in Marradi and Palazzuolo sul Senio (on October 7, 14, 21 and 28), and in Dicomano, where on 3,6 and 7 of October will be held a funny Fiera di Ottobre -Festival of grapes and chestnuts.
Mushrooms and truffles
San Miniato, in the province of Pisa, awaits all truffle lovers at the traditional Festival of White Truffle and Porcini mushrooms on September 28-30.
In two weekends of October, 13-14 and 20-21 in Casale di Pari, in the province of Grosseto, you can join the 37th Festival of Porcini mushrooms.
At Villa Serena in Montaione on October 28 there will be a Festival/Market of truffle and local products.
Enjoy grape, chestnut and mushroom Festivals and taste the fruits of the Tuscan land!
About Cristina Romeo
Born in Florence at the end of the fabulous '70s, Cristina has always lived in the famous "cradle of the Renaissance". She's in love with her homeland, but also enjoys traveling and discovering new places. Cristina is mum to a lovely little girl, to whom she hopes to pass on all the passion and love of our precious, wonderful Tuscany.
