Waiting for the Fair

A midsummer running tradition

Waiting for the Fair is a well-established fixture in the Florentine running calendar, reaching its nineteenth edition in 2026. The race takes place in Lastra a Signa, a municipality in the Metropolitan City of Florence in Tuscany, and is organized by the ASD Nuova Atletica Lastra under the aegis of the UISP Committee of Florence. As the name suggests, the event precedes the Ancient August Fair—the town's historic popular festival—by a few weeks, serving as a joyful sporting prelude.

The route: from the Arno to Villa Caruso

The start is set at the Lastra a Signa River Park, the green area overlooking the Arno, thanks to the support of the Locanda del Parco. The route features an initial flat stretch along the river, followed by a challenging climb leading up to the 16th-century Villa Caruso di Bellosguardo, a historic residence once linked to the famous tenor Enrico Caruso. The path crosses the villa's park, adorned with animal sculptures by the sculptor Romolo del Tadda, offering participants panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

A race for everyone

Waiting for the Fair is a non-competitive race designed to welcome runners of all levels and casual enthusiasts. Over the years, the format has included an approx. 8–9.5 km running course and a shorter recreational walk of about 5 km, suitable for families and walkers. As it is a midsummer race, several editions have started in the evening, around 8:00 PM, to enjoy the cool air and the evocative atmosphere of the sunset over the Arno.

The spirit of the event

More than just a race, Waiting for the Fair is a community celebration: an opportunity to experience the Lastra a Signa area, rediscover its most beautiful corners, and share outdoor sports. The event relies on the contribution of local volunteers and sponsors, and in some editions, on photography services provided by local non-profit organizations. It is the ideal event for those who want to combine movement, nature, and traditional Tuscan culture.

Lastra a Signa and its Fair

Lastra a Signa is a village in the Florentine plain famous for its medieval walls and its proximity to Florence. The Ancient August Fair, held at the end of August, is one of the town's most beloved events: Waiting for the Fair is its sporting appetizer, attracting runners from all over the province every year.