Ferie delle Messi

On June 13, 14 and 15, San Gimignano hosts the ‟Ferie delle Messi” event, a historical re-enactment that takes place in the town’s streets and piazzas, with period stalls set up and arts and crafts straight from the Middle Ages. 

In addition to the games and contests between the four historic Contrade (or Districts) of Castello, Piazza, San Matteo, and San Giovanni, San Gimignano comes to life with performances by storytellers, musicians and thespians. 

Saturday afternoon sees the presentation of the riders and horses of the four Contrade that will compete the following day in the “Giostra dei Bastoni” (an old-fashioned jousting). 
On Sunday morning in Piazza del Duomo, the blessing of horses is followed by a parade of the four Contrade on the steps of the Duomo (Cathedral). 
Then in the afternoon, the beautiful historical processions are held, featuring all the paraders, before the knightly tournament takes place.