Palio del Cerro

Cerreto Guidi’s Palio del Cerro is a traditional festival that celebrates the historical and cultural roots of the local community, involving the 4 local Contrade (districts or wards) in a joyful and engaging competition. 
It takes place each year on the 1ˢᵗ Saturday in September, with the 2026 edition scheduled for Saturday 5.
The event, inspired by the 1573 celebrations in honor of a visit by Cosimo I de’ Medici, begins with a grand parade in Renaissance costumes along the streets of the village. 

During the evening of the Palio, the Contrade face off in a range of contests and historical competitions, including tug-of-war, crossbow shooting, Corsa sui Troppoli (a race where the aim is to cross the finish line on 3 blocks of woods slid along the ground), chariot racing and ring tosses to win the Palio, a hand-painted banner symbolizing victory.  

The following weekend is dedicated to the Palio dei Ragazzi, with games and challenges between the younger generations.