Barlassina in Festa - Palio dei Rioni
One of the most deep-rooted events in Brianza, featuring the Cursa di Asnitt
About Palio dei Rioni
Barlassina's historic festival
Barlassina in Festa - Palio dei Rioni is one of the most cherished and long-standing events in Brianza: every September it enlivens Barlassina, a municipality in the province of Monza and Brianza, with a grand festival that blends historical reenactment and popular tradition.
The procession, the districts, and the Cursa di Asnitt
The heart of the event is the challenge between the town's eight districts, who compete in games and trials. Among these, the famous Cursa di Asnitt, the "donkey race," stands out: since 2013, competitors have been transporting a polystyrene donkey on a stretcher, with a ball on top that must not fall. The historical costume procession winds through the streets of the center, accompanied by medieval games, dancing fountains, and entertainment.
A festival for all of Brianza
With street food, music, dance performances, comedy shows, and markets, the festival attracts a large audience from all over Brianza. Organized by the Pro Loco Barlassina with the patronage of the Lombardy Region, it is an event that enhances the town's identity and traditions, centered in Piazza Cavour.
Palio dei Rioni — edition 2026
The 42nd Palio dei Rioni
For 2026, Barlassina in Festa - Palio dei Rioni is set for its 42nd edition, during the third week of September, continuing the event's long tradition (the 41st edition took place from September 18th to 21st, 2025).
The established format is confirmed: the historical procession of the eight districts in costume, the famous Cursa di Asnitt, medieval games, dancing fountains, street food, and music, all centered in Piazza Cavour. The event is organized by Pro Loco Barlassina with the patronage of the Lombardy Region. The detailed schedule will be announced closer to the festival.
Programme Palio dei Rioni 2026
Third week of September
- Historical procession of the eight districts in costume
- Cursa di Asnitt (donkey race)
- Medieval games and challenges between districts
- Dancing fountains
- Street food, music, dance performances, and comedy shows
- Markets
Heart of the festival: Piazza Cavour. Detailed program to be defined.
Highlights Palio dei Rioni 2026
Prices Palio dei Rioni 2026
Practical information — Palio dei Rioni
How to get there
Barlassina is located in Brianza, about 13 km from Monza, reachable by train on the Milan-Asso line and by car from the Milano-Meda (SS35).
Costs
Free entry to the festival; street food and some activities are paid.
Info
Program curated by Pro Loco Barlassina.
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Where does it take place — Palio dei Rioni
Piazza Cavour e centro di Barlassina
Piazza Cavour, 20825 Barlassina