Barrel Race

A challenge that runs through the centuries

The Barrel Race is the most characteristic event of Costacciaro, a small village in the province of Perugia nestled at the foot of Monte Cucco. Born in 1991, the race celebrates the territory's wine tradition and is closely linked to the feast of San Martino, when new wine was once tasted.

The race between the barrels

The highlight is the spectacular race between two barrels, mounted on an axle with a tiller and pushed by teams of young barrel makers. The barrels whiz along a route of about 650 meters that crosses the historic center — Corso Mazzini, via Guglielmo Marconi, and via Ines Marconi — between climbs, curves, and a steep descent where the barrel can reach sustained speeds. The race is held in multiple timed heats: the team with the best overall time wins.

The peasant re-enactment

The challenge is preceded by a grand parade: over 150 figures in period costumes re-enact scenes of peasant life, accompanying the two barrels through the village streets. In the typical cellars of San Martino, chestnuts and new wine are enjoyed, in an atmosphere that takes you back in time.

The village teams

The competition pits the districts of the village against each other, who liven up taverns and cellars during the festival days. The Barrel Race is today an event of strong appeal that enhances Costacciaro and the entire Monte Cucco Park area, in Umbria.