Palio del Garzoncello
The preview for the youngest of the Palio dei Quartieri of Nocera Umbra
About Palio del Garzoncello
The Palio del Garzoncello
The Palio del Garzoncello is the preview for the younger generation of the famous Palio dei Quartieri of Nocera Umbra, in the heart of the Umbrian Apennines in the province of Perugia. Introduced in 2019, it traditionally takes place in the last week of July or the first few days of August, a few days before the main event.
Children in the Spotlight
The little 'garzoncelli' (young boys) from the two districts — Borgo San Martino and Porta Santa Croce — compete in the same races as the adults, the relay race and the stretcher-bearer race, but in a version adapted to their age. In the days leading up to the event, the young competitors train intensely, experiencing the same competitive spirit and sense of belonging that characterizes the Palio dei Quartieri.
A Festival that Grows Tradition
In addition to the race, the Garzoncello includes the presentation of the young athletes in the Giardino delle Acque (Garden of the Waters), a performance by the Coro del Garzoncello (Garzoncello Choir), and entertainment for families. It is the way Nocera Umbra, in Umbria, passes on its traditions to new generations and prepares the champions of tomorrow for the Palio.
Palio del Garzoncello — edition 2026
The Palio del Garzoncello 2026 will take place in early August, preceding the Palio dei Quartieri scheduled for August 3 to 9, 2026. The exact dates and detailed program have not yet been released.
The event will maintain its usual structure: presentation of the young athletes from the two districts at the Giardino delle Acque, performance by the Coro del Garzoncello, and the race in Piazza Umberto I with the children's versions of the relay race and the stretcher-bearer race.
Programme Palio del Garzoncello 2026
The detailed program for the 2026 edition will be announced in the weeks leading up to the event. The traditional structure includes:
- Presentation of the young athletes from the two districts at the Giardino delle Acque, with a performance by the Coro del Garzoncello and entertainment for families
- Mass with the contrada members in the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
- Race in Piazza Umberto I: relay and stretcher-bearer races, in a version for children
Updates: palioquartierinocera.com.
Highlights Palio del Garzoncello 2026
Prices Palio del Garzoncello 2026
Practical information — Palio del Garzoncello
How to get there
Nocera Umbra can be reached by car from the SS3 Flaminia, Nocera Umbra exit. The nearest train station is on the Foligno-Fabriano-Ancona line. The presentation takes place at the Giardino delle Acque, and the race is in Piazza Umberto I.
When
It is traditionally held at the end of July or the first few days of August, preceding the Palio dei Quartieri.
Admission
A popular event. For updated dates and details, consult the Palio dei Quartieri website.
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Where does it take place — Palio del Garzoncello
Piazza Umberto I e Giardino delle Acque
Piazza Umberto I, 06025 Nocera Umbra