Archive for 'Concerts & Festivals'

There are few cities with the quantity and quality of incredible landmarks as Rome. It is a truly staggering city to explore, with amazing sights around every corner that show the lingering presence of the grand history and heritage of Rome, living today alongside the hustle and bustle of contemporary life. Some of these landmarks are now cordoned off and require tickets and queuing up and milling along with other tourists on tours to view them but some have been absorbed into the landscape of the city in a more natural way. One such attraction is the famous Circus Maximus, which was once the site of grand chariot races in the time of the Ancient Romans and is now still very much in use by contemporary Romans as a place for performances, concerts, gatherings, and just sitting out, chatting, and enjoying the view that such noble ruins in the storied cityscape that surrounds afford. If you find yourself on
vacation in Rome, it is definitely a spot to pencil in as it is a key attraction, free to visit, and a little less hectic than many of Italy's other famous landmarks.

Rome is, understandably, pretty special at Christmastime. As the centre of Catholicism with the presence of the Vatican, Christmas is pretty important and a major celebration in Rome. If you are a passionate fan of Christmas or, particularly, a religious Christian, it is a must to spend at least one Yuletide season in Rome. There is so much to do in the city on a daily basis but even more excitement and lots more interesting festive events around Christmas. From Christmas markets to masses to performances and concerts, there is plenty to keep you entertained. In particular, there are lots of great events for music-lovers as Rome is also home to lots of musical and choir groups, many that are centuries old, and which have honed their talents over generations.

One such group is the prestigious Schola Romana Ensemble, a highly professional group of singers and musicians specialised in Roman Baroque music, who will be performing this year in the stunning church of Santa Maria della Concezione. To experience the magic of their Christmas performance, and much more besides, just browse our vacation rentals in Rome and planning a trip to Rome this Christmas!

There are many interesting traditional festivals that take place all over Italy from foodie delights to heart-in-your-mouth horse races, costumed parades to wild parties. However, among them all, there is one that stands out as, perhaps, the most unique, bizarre, interesting and entertaining. This, of course, has to be the Palio della Rana. Taking place in the town of Fermignano in Le Marche, not far from Urbino, this festival features multiple events and celebrations including an annual race that takes place each year on the Sunday following Easter. While the Palio di Siena is one of the most famous horse races in the world, this is probably the most famous frog race in the world. Yes, you read that correctly, it is a frog race and if you want to experience it for yourself, you need only find a vacation rental in Le Marche and plan to be there on time for the big event!

The Palio della Rana festival was born as a result of the town's independence from the rulers of Urbino in the 18th century, warranting major celebrations and new traditions. Among those new traditions that were created at this time, the frog race emerged. It involves representatives from the 7 contrade of Fermignano (Cà L’Agostina, Calpino, La Pieve, La Torre, San Lazzaro, San Silvestro and Santa Barbara), each clad in traditional clothing and wearing different colours, compete for the title of champion. Specialists inspect the frogs before and after the race to ensure there is no foul play and each frog is placed on a wheelbarrow, underneath a basket.

Lots of places the world over have carnival celebrations and Italy has plentiful options when it comes to wanting to enjoy this crazy annual party. However, if you find a vacation rental in Sardinia you will find that the island's most vibrant carnival celebration might just be the only one in the country to be seen at on Shrove Tuesday.

Taking place in the town of Tempio Pausania over the course of several days around Shrove Tuesday, the carnival celebrations in the town date back to around 800AD and are deeply rooted in local history and tradition. It is an especially colourful iteration of the festival, due to the incredible parade and floats that were first conceived and added around 60 years ago. Locals eagerly await and participate in the event, taking over the whole town and flooding the streets with people in incredible costumes and elaborate masks, music, sound, and excitement.

The Fattoria del Toce is a farm with an agricultural park that is dedicated to education and knowledge. Officially recognised and supported by the governing bodies of the Piedmont region, the farm was founded in 2002 and introduces visitors to local plant varieties such as camellias, azaleas and rhododendrons, as well as trees like maples and ancient olive trees, and, of course, some adorable farm animals such as the 43 different breeds of rabbits, various breeds of poultry and some endangered creatures, too. Popular throughout the year for families, schools and tourists, it is especially wonderful over the Christmas period and is a wonderful place to spend a day if you and your family have found a vacation rental in Piedmont and are looking for some festive fun!