Image credits: khadijahshakbodin5c.blogspot.com
It sure hurts to get pummeled by oranges but the Italians don’t seem to mind during the Battle of the Oranges (Battaglia delle Arance) in the city of Ivrea. While this festival occasionally takes a violent turn, the locals consider it a joyous and liberating event, and it is also a significant part of their culture. This annual festival, usually a few days prior to Fat Tuesday, commemorates the uprising against an oppressive ruler dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries.
Image credits: Carmelo Speltino
This year, the festival is celebrated from February 14 to 17. You can still make it in time for the largest food fight in Italy. Just a friendly tip: wear a Phrygian red cap if you don’t want to be hit by orange in the midst of fighting teams.
Take a glimpse into the festival last year with this video.
Don’t miss this fun and exciting festival when you visit Italy this February.