Every February, the small Italian city of Ivrea in Piedmont becomes the setting for one of the most extraordinary events in the world: the Battaglia delle Arance — the Battle of the Oranges. During three carnival days, teams of throwers on foot battle against teams on horse-drawn carts in a spectacular fight that leaves the streets knee-deep in orange pulp. It’s Italy’s largest food fight.
Free entry for spectators — participating as a thrower is possible in certain teams.
A battle with historical meaning
The Battle of Oranges is a deeply symbolic re-enactment of a medieval legend about a miller’s daughter who refused the tyrannical lord, killed him and inspired the people to revolt. The oranges thrown by the foot teams represent the people’s uprising; those on the carts represent the lord’s guards.
How the battle works
The battle takes place over three carnival days, with the main battle on Sunday afternoon. Nine teams of aranceri on foot face multiple horse-drawn carts. Up to 500,000 kilograms of oranges are used each year. Spectators can wear a red hat or scarf to indicate they are non-participants.
Practical info
- Date: annually in Ivrea during carnival season, usually February
- Entry: free for spectators
- Protection: wear a red hat or scarf as a spectator
- Getting there: Ivrea, Piedmont, Italy — train from Turin