Fodor's Expert Review Palio di Asti

September is a month of fairs and celebrations in Asti, and this horse race that runs through the streets of town is the highlight. First mentioned in 1275, this annual event has been going strong ever since. After an elaborate procession in period costumes, nine horses and jockeys representing different sections of town vie for the honor of claiming the palio, a symbolic flag of victory. The race happens on a Sunday at the beginning of September each year.