Battaglia delle Arance 2026
FestivalThree days of organised orange-throwing battles in Ivrea's piazzas. Nine foot teams face off against carts loaded with oranges. The streets run orange with juice. 500 tonnes of oranges are thrown over three days.
How it works
Teams on foot (aranceri) represent the townspeople; teams on horse-drawn carts represent the tyrant's guards. The foot teams throw oranges at the carts; the cart teams throw back. It's a re-enactment of a medieval revolt, and it's taken very seriously.
How to participate
As a spectator: Buy a red hat (berretto frigio, €12) from any bar or shop in town. The red hat signals that you're a spectator and DO NOT want to be hit. Without the hat, you're fair game.
As a thrower: Join a team — most welcome visitors. Ask at the tourist office or any bar which team is recruiting. You'll get soaked in orange juice and probably bruised. It's glorious.
Bottom line
The Battle of the Oranges is one of Italy's most extraordinary experiences — medieval chaos, communal joy, and the smell of 500 tonnes of citrus. Go once. You'll never forget it.