Halloween in Tuscany and Umbria 2026: The Best Events, Haunted Villages and Autumn Food Traditions

By Alina Pinelli | Tuscany Umbria Blog

Halloween isn’t an Italian tradition. But somehow, we’ve managed to make it very Italian. And I have to admit, I love it!

When I was growing up, nobody celebrated Halloween in Italy. We didn’t carve pumpkins, dress up as witches or knock on our neighbours’ doors asking for sweets.

October 31 was just another autumn evening.

We had our own traditions. November 1 was All Saints’ Day, followed by All Souls’ Day on November 2, when families remembered their loved ones and visited cemeteries with flowers.

Then, little by little, Halloween arrived.

At first, it was mostly something for children. A few costumes, some sweets, perhaps a party at school.

But over the years, something interesting has happened.

Our medieval villages have fallen in love with Halloween.

And honestly, can you imagine a better setting?

We have narrow cobblestone streets, ancient castles, mysterious cellars, old stone houses and centuries of legends. Some of these villages look slightly haunted even without decorations!

Today, entire historic centres are transformed into Halloween villages, with witches wandering through the streets, pumpkins glowing in medieval doorways and children running around dressed as ghosts and monsters.

Every year, the celebrations become bigger, more creative and more entertaining.

And naturally, because we’re in Italy, we have added something essential: really good food.

Forget just Halloween candy.

Here, you can find steaming plates of polenta, roasted chestnuts, grilled sausages, Cinta Senese pork sandwiches, local cheeses and excellent Tuscan and Umbrian wines.

While the children are busy trick-or-treating, the adults have plenty of reasons to enjoy themselves too.

Since becoming a mother, I’ve discovered how much fun these little village celebrations can be. My daughter and I love dressing up, wandering through medieval streets and discovering what each town has organized.

Some years we end up at a huge Halloween festival. Other times, it’s a small workshop in our village or an afternoon exploring market stalls.

And sometimes the best part is simply stopping for something delicious to eat.

So, if you’re visiting Tuscany or Umbria at the end of October, here are the best Halloween events for 2026, including some of our favourite local traditions that are too good to miss.

1. Chianciano Terme: The Addams Family Returns for Halloween

Saturday, October 31, 2026 | 7 PM–Midnight

One of my favourite Halloween celebrations near home is La Notte delle Streghe in Chianciano Terme.

Every year, the historic centre of this Tuscan spa town becomes a completely different place.

I remember one edition inspired by the Addams Family, with spooky characters appearing around corners and children running through the medieval streets.

Well, the Addams Family is back for Halloween 2026!

This year’s 18th edition promises another wonderfully spooky evening, with the historic centre transformed into a Halloween village.

Expect mysterious characters, entertainment and plenty of opportunities for trick-or-treating.

The organizers have a simple suggestion: bring a bag for sweets, wear your Halloween costume and don’t forget your courage.

I particularly love the atmosphere of Chianciano’s historic centre after dark. The old buildings, narrow streets and little squares provide the perfect setting.

And when you need a break from all the excitement, there’s always something good to eat.

I still remember the delicious polenta and Cinta Senese pork sandwiches we’ve enjoyed at local autumn celebrations. This is exactly what I mean when I say that Italians know how to make Halloween their own.

My local tip: Arrive a little before sunset and explore the historic centre before the celebrations begin. Chianciano Terme is only a short drive from Montepulciano and Chiusi, making it an excellent Halloween destination if you’re staying in southern Tuscany.

Event details: La Notte delle Streghe, 18th Edition; October 31, 7 PM–midnight; historic centre of Chianciano Terme.

2. Paciano: A Little Halloween Fun in Our Village

Friday, October 30, 2026 | 5–6:30 PM

Even our tiny medieval village of Paciano, overlooking Lake Trasimeno, is getting ready for Halloween.

And this is exactly the kind of initiative I love.

On Friday, October 30, The English Studio, in collaboration with the Municipality of Paciano, is organizing a special English-language Halloween workshop for children aged 6 to 11.

The workshop will be led by Suzannah Behrens and inspired by Bone Soup, the wonderfully spooky children’s book by Cambria Evans.

Children will enjoy a creative afternoon practising English, discovering a Halloween story and getting ready for the celebrations.

And everyone is encouraged to come in costume!

What I love most about these small village events is how they bring families together.

Paciano might be tiny, but there is always someone organizing something interesting for the children.

Sometimes you don’t need a huge festival or elaborate decorations. A good story, a few costumes and a room full of excited children are more than enough.

Event details: Halloween English and Creative Workshop, Bone Soup; October 30, 5–6:30 PM; Palazzo Baldeschi, Paciano; ages 6–11.

3. Monte San Savino: Three Days in the City of Halloween

October 30–November 1, 2026

If you’re looking for a bigger Halloween celebration in Tuscany, Monte San Savino is one of the most interesting events this year.

For three days, this beautiful medieval town near Arezzo becomes La Città di Halloween — the City of Halloween.

And they certainly don’t do things halfway!

The entire historic centre becomes part of the celebration, with haunted attractions, mysterious characters, performances, themed markets and entertainment.

The programme includes spooky experiences, activities for children, street performers, music and DJ sets.

And, naturally, plenty of street food.

What I particularly like about this event is that it takes place in a real Tuscan town, rather than an amusement park.

The historic buildings and narrow streets are part of the atmosphere.

You can spend hours wandering around, discovering different attractions and stopping for something to eat.

My local tip: Because the festival lasts three days, it’s a good option for families who want to avoid the busiest hours of Halloween night.

Event details: La Città di Halloween; October 30, 31 and November 1; Monte San Savino, Province of Arezzo.

4. Montepulciano: Halloween with the Contrada di Gracciano

Saturday, October 31, 2026 | From 4 PM

Montepulciano is one of my favourite towns in Tuscany, particularly in autumn.

The vineyards are turning red and gold, the wine cellars are busy, and the entire town seems to slow down after the summer crowds.

This Halloween, the Contrada di Gracciano is organizing a special afternoon for children and families.

Starting at 4 PM, there will be music, spooky temporary tattoos and a Halloween treasure hunt.

It’s a lovely example of how local communities have embraced Halloween.

Montepulciano’s contrade are an important part of the town’s identity, and seeing them organize activities for children makes the celebration feel genuinely local.

My suggestion: Spend the morning exploring Montepulciano, enjoy lunch in a traditional trattoria and perhaps visit a wine cellar to taste Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Then let the children enjoy their Halloween party!

Event details: Halloween Party, Contrada di Gracciano; October 31, from 4 PM; Montepulciano.

5. Siena: Halloween at La Miniera — From Brunch to Pumpkin Decorating

Saturday, October 31, 2026

If you’re spending Halloween in Siena, La Miniera has organized an entire day of activities, and I particularly like the idea of starting Halloween with brunch.

From 12 PM to 3 PM, families can enjoy a special Halloween brunch, priced at €25 for adults and €15 for children.

Then, from 3 PM to 5 PM, it’s time to get creative.

Children and adults can decorate their own Halloween pumpkins during a special workshop.

The pumpkin-decorating activity costs €10 per person, and you can take your creation home afterwards.

In the evening, the restaurant will be decorated for Halloween, with a special atmosphere, à la carte dining and themed dishes.

It’s a good option for families who prefer a relaxed Halloween afternoon rather than a frightening evening.

And Siena is always worth visiting, especially in autumn.

Event details: Halloween alla Miniera; October 31; Strada Pian del Lago 31, Siena.

Programme: Brunch 12–3 PM; pumpkin decorating 3–5 PM; Halloween dinner in the evening.

Reservations: +39 0577 318792.

6. Siena: A Monster Hunt at the Natural History Museum

Saturday, October 31, 2026

If you’re visiting Siena with children, there’s another Halloween activity that combines fun with a little education.

The Natural History Museum of the Accademia dei Fisiocritici is organizing Halloween Bestiale, a special afternoon for children aged 6 to 12.

Instead of simply dressing up as monsters, children can explore the museum, solve mysteries and discover the natural world through Halloween-themed activities.

The programme includes a prehistoric monster hunt, creative activities and mysterious messages hidden throughout the museum.

Activities begin at 4:30 PM, with additional sessions at 5 PM and 5:30 PM.

Reservations are required.

And afterwards?

You’re in Siena!

Take a walk through Piazza del Campo, enjoy a hot chocolate or find a little trattoria for dinner.

Event details: Halloween Bestiale; October 31; Accademia dei Fisiocritici, Siena; ages 6–12; €8 per person.

7. Siena: Halloween Night at Enoteca Italiana

Saturday, October 31, 2026 | From 7 PM

For adults looking for a Halloween evening in Siena, Enoteca Italiana is organizing a special event at its Enoteca Café.

The Halloween party begins at 7 PM and includes live music and a buffet.

The setting is particularly interesting because the Enoteca is located inside the historic Fortezza Medicea.

The event’s theme draws inspiration from Michael Myers, the famous character from the Halloween horror films.

It’s a different way to spend October 31, particularly if you’re visiting Siena without children.

Event details: Halloween at Enoteca Café; October 31, from 7 PM; Enoteca Italiana, Fortezza Medicea, Siena.

8. Trasqua Village: A Halloween Dinner Near Siena

Saturday, October 31, 2026 | From 8:30 PM

For anyone who prefers a Halloween dinner with music and entertainment, Trasqua Village is organizing Una Cena da Paura — A Frightening Dinner!

The evening begins at 8:30 PM and includes dinner, music and entertainment.

The advertised price is €25 per person, including water, with other drinks excluded.

The programme also features a DJ set with Riccardo and Regretto and live entertainment.

It’s a good choice if you want to celebrate Halloween with friends rather than spend the evening trick-or-treating.

Event details: Una Cena da Paura; October 31, from 8:30 PM; Trasqua Village, Località Trasqua, Castellina in Chianti.

9. Perugia: Halloween Park at Città della Domenica

October 25 and 31; November 1, 2026

For families with younger children, Città della Domenica in Perugia is organizing a special Halloween Park.

This is a good option if you want to spend an entire day enjoying activities with the children.

The programme includes spooky decorations, costumed characters, storytelling, games, riddles and Halloween entertainment.

There is also a costume parade.

It’s a fun choice for children who enjoy Halloween without wanting anything too frightening.

Event details: Halloween Park; October 25 and 31, and November 1; Città della Domenica, Perugia.

10. Sismano: The Village of Horrors

October 31–November 2, 2026

Another interesting Halloween destination in Umbria is Sismano, a tiny medieval village near Avigliano Umbro.

Here, Halloween becomes Il Borgo degli Orrori — the Village of Horrors.

The old stone buildings and narrow streets become the setting for spooky characters, performances and mysterious encounters.

According to the local event programme, the village will host a frightening route through its medieval streets, along with a themed dinner and street food.

What I love about events like this is how perfectly Halloween fits into our medieval villages.

We don’t need to build fake castles or haunted houses.

We already have the real thing!

Event details: Borgo degli Orrori; October 31–November 2; Sismano, Avigliano Umbro, Province of Terni.

11. Solomeo: A Halloween Party for Children

Saturday, October 31, 2026 | From 4 PM

Solomeo, the beautiful medieval village near Corciano, is organizing a Halloween party for families.

Starting at 4 PM, children are invited to arrive in costume.

The programme includes creative workshops, pumpkin decorating and Halloween-themed activities.

There will also be a musical performance by the Banda della Filarmonica di Solomeo.

It’s another lovely example of a small Umbrian village creating something special for local families.

And Solomeo itself is worth discovering, with its beautiful stone buildings and peaceful village atmosphere.

Event details: Halloween Party; October 31, from 4 PM; Solomeo, Umbria.

12. Villa Pitignano: The Most Monstrous Halloween Party Ever!

Saturday, October 31, 2026 | From 6 PM

If you are staying near Perugia, the Pro Loco of Villa Pitignano is organizing a Halloween celebration with a full evening programme.

The event begins at 6 PM, with participants gathering at the local CVA.

At 6:30 PM, children and families will follow a Halloween route through the village, discovering mysterious stations filled with games and treats.

Then, from 8:30 PM, there will be dinner and entertainment, including face painting for children and karaoke.

And the menu is very Italian!

Adults can enjoy pumpkin paccheri pasta, pancetta croccante with Gorgonzola cream, roast pork and Halloween desserts.

The children’s menu includes hamburgers, chips and Halloween sweets.

Prices: €22 for adults and €10 for children.

This is exactly the kind of local celebration I enjoy discovering: families, volunteers, homemade food and a village coming together for a fun evening.

Event details: La Festa di Halloween Più Mostruosa di Sempre; October 31; CVA di Villa Pitignano, Perugia.

13. Perugia: Il Galà delle Ombre

Friday, October 30, 2026 | 8:30 PM

If you’re looking for a Halloween evening in Perugia, Il Galà delle Ombre is another event to consider.

The event is scheduled for Friday, October 30, at 8:30 PM, at Strada Trasimeno Ovest 106.

Unlike the village celebrations and children’s workshops, this is an evening event, so check the organizer’s programme for further information about the activities, admission and reservations.

Event details: Il Galà delle Ombre; October 30, 8:30 PM; Strada Trasimeno Ovest 106, Perugia.

14. Montone: Festa del Bosco and the Flavours of Autumn

October 30–November 1, 2026

Now, this isn’t a Halloween celebration, but I couldn’t leave it out.

Montone is one of the most beautiful medieval villages in Umbria, and every autumn it hosts the Festa del Bosco — the Festival of the Forest.

In 2026, the festival celebrates its 42nd edition.

This is exactly the kind of local event I love.

The village fills with market stalls, seasonal products, traditional food and the wonderful aromas of autumn.

Think roasted chestnuts, mushrooms, truffles, local cheeses and regional specialities.

There are also cultural activities and entertainment.

If you prefer traditional food festivals to Halloween parties, this is a wonderful alternative.

Event details: Festa del Bosco, 42nd Edition; October 30–November 1; Montone, Province of Perugia.

15. Montepulciano Stazione: Roasted Chestnuts and New Olive Oil

Sunday, November 1, 2026 | From 4 PM

Now, this is my kind of autumn celebration!

On Sunday, November 1, Montepulciano Stazione is hosting a traditional Castagnata — a chestnut festival — at Maestà del Ponte.

Starting at 4 PM, visitors can enjoy roasted chestnuts, bruschetta with freshly pressed extra virgin olive oil, mulled wine and sweet wine.

The event is organized as a community gathering, with voluntary contributions.

And from 8 PM, the celebrations continue with an informal dinner featuring antipasti and pizza.

This is a lovely alternative to Halloween, especially if you want to experience a more traditional side of autumn in Tuscany.

For me, the combination of roasted chestnuts and new olive oil is hard to beat.

Event details: Castagnata alla Maestà del Ponte; November 1, from 4 PM; Montepulciano Stazione, Tuscany.

16. Tuscania: Halloween Between Two Worlds

October 31–November 1, 2026

Although Tuscania is technically in Lazio, I wanted to include it because it’s a beautiful destination for an autumn day trip.

This year, the town is organizing Halloween: Il Confine tra i Mondi — The Border Between Two Worlds.

The celebrations combine Halloween activities with themes inspired by remembrance and the traditions of All Saints’ Day.

On October 31, there will be creative workshops, pumpkin activities, a treasure hunt and an aerial performance.

The programme continues on November 1 with more entertainment and creative activities.

I particularly like the idea of connecting Halloween with our own Italian traditions.

And Tuscania itself is worth visiting for its medieval architecture, ancient churches and beautiful views.

Event details: Halloween – Il Confine tra i Mondi; October 31–November 1; Tuscania, Province of Viterbo, Lazio.

17. Fiera dei Morti in Perugia: The One Event We Never Want to Miss!

October 31–November 5, 2026

If there’s one event I look forward to every autumn with my daughter, it’s the Fiera dei Morti in Perugia.

And no, it has absolutely nothing to do with Halloween!

In fact, it’s something much older and much more Italian.

The Fiera dei Morti is one of Perugia’s most beloved traditional fairs, with centuries of history behind it.

Every year, the city fills with hundreds of stalls selling almost everything imaginable.

Handmade crafts, clothes, toys, household goods, flowers, plants, traditional products and food from all over Italy.

And every year, my daughter and I go.

We wander through the stalls, look at things we don’t need, find little treasures and inevitably stop to eat something.

Sometimes we buy something useful.

More often, we come home with something completely unexpected.

But that’s part of the fun! And then there’s the food.

The smell of roasted chestnuts, grilled sausages and freshly prepared street food is everywhere.

You can find Umbrian specialities, products from other Italian regions and stalls representing Perugia’s international twin cities.

It’s a wonderful mixture of local traditions and international flavours.

When Is the Fiera dei Morti in Perugia in 2026?

This year, the celebrations begin on Saturday, October 31, with a special preview in Perugia’s historic centre.

From November 1 to 5, the fair continues both in the historic centre and at Pian di Massiano.

The main locations include Corso Vannucci, Piazza Matteotti, Via Mazzini, Piazza Italia and the large market area at Pian di Massiano.

You can easily spend several hours exploring.

My local tip: If you’re travelling with children, allow plenty of time. There are so many stalls to discover, and the atmosphere is part of the experience.

I would choose this over a shopping centre any day.

And if you’ve never visited Perugia, combine the fair with a walk through Piazza IV Novembre, Corso Vannucci and the medieval streets of the historic centre.

Event details: Fiera dei Morti 2026; October 31–November 5; Perugia, historic centre and Pian di Massiano.

What Do Italians Eat at Halloween?

One thing I find amusing about Halloween in Italy is how quickly we manage to turn an American celebration into an excuse to eat.

Of course, the children want sweets.

But the adults?

We want something delicious!

October and November are two of my favourite months for food in Tuscany and Umbria.

Depending on the village and the event, you’ll find homemade polenta with sausage ragù, grilled Cinta Senese pork sandwiches, roasted chestnuts, pumpkin dishes, wild mushrooms, truffles and local pecorino cheese.

And naturally, a good glass of Tuscan or Umbrian wine.

This is also the season of the olive harvest.

At our organic farm, Il Fontanaro, near Paciano, we’re busy harvesting olives and pressing our new extra virgin olive oil.

There’s nothing quite like a slice of toasted country bread rubbed with garlic and covered with freshly pressed olive oil.

In Tuscany, we call it fettunta.

Simple, delicious and one of the best things about autumn.

If you’re visiting the area, you can also join one of our cooking experiences at Slow Cooking School, where we prepare homemade pasta, traditional recipes and seasonal dishes using ingredients from our organic farm.

Why I Love Halloween in Tuscany and Umbria

I know Halloween isn’t part of our original Italian traditions.

And I wouldn’t want it to replace them.

But I think there’s something lovely about the way our villages have adopted this celebration.

We have ancient streets, medieval castles, local legends and centuries of history.

Add a few pumpkins, some witches, children in costumes and a good plate of polenta, and suddenly Halloween feels surprisingly Italian.

What I enjoy most is seeing our communities come together.

Parents, grandparents, children, volunteers, shopkeepers and visitors all sharing the same little squares.

It’s an excuse to get out, discover somewhere new and spend time together.

And since becoming a mother, I’ve learned that sometimes the simplest afternoons become the memories we treasure most.

A little village, a silly costume, something delicious to eat and my daughter laughing beside me.

That’s my kind of Halloween.

Although, if I had to choose just one event?

I would still choose the Fiera dei Morti in Perugia.

Some traditions are simply too good to miss.

Happy Halloween from Tuscany and Umbria!

Alina

Frequently Asked Questions About Halloween in Tuscany and Umbria

Is Halloween celebrated in Italy?

Yes. Although Halloween isn’t traditionally Italian, it has become increasingly popular, especially among families with children. Many Tuscan and Umbrian villages now organize trick-or-treating, costume parties, creative workshops and themed celebrations.

Where can I celebrate Halloween near Montepulciano in 2026?

Chianciano Terme is one of the best nearby destinations, with La Notte delle Streghe on October 31. Montepulciano also has a Halloween party organized by the Contrada di Gracciano.

What are the best Halloween events for children in Umbria?

The Halloween workshop in Paciano, Halloween Park at Città della Domenica in Perugia, the party in Solomeo and the celebrations in Villa Pitignano are all worth considering.

Where are the biggest Halloween festivals in Tuscany in 2026 around us?

Monte San Savino hosts a three-day Halloween festival from October 30 to November 1, while Chianciano Terme celebrates La Notte delle Streghe on October 31.

What is the Fiera dei Morti in Perugia?

The Fiera dei Morti is a historic autumn market held around All Saints’ Day. In 2026, it takes place from October 31 to November 5, featuring traditional foods, crafts, shopping and international exhibitors.

Is November 1 a public holiday in Italy?

Yes. November 1 is All Saints’ Day, a national public holiday in Italy. Many shops and businesses may have different opening hours, while festivals and special events often take place.