Battle of the Oranges

This is just as it says on the tin - a battle of orange-throwing amongst rival teams...watch your backs if you decide to watch the lively goings-on!
https://pixabay.com/photos/oranges-citrus-fruits-vitamin-c-2100108/
This is a three day event established in 1808, forming part of Ivrea's annual carnival and concluding on Shrove Tuesday each year. It involves 9 teams, 3000+ participants and nearly 400 tonnes of oranges which rival teams use to pelt each other with! Though strictly only the participants are involved, inevitably some of the oranges can get misfired and therefore be aware when watching the spectacle. To demonstrate that you are watching and not participating in the throwing, tradition suggests you should wear a Phrygian Cap!

The battle of the oranges is a modern-day reminder of the civil war that broke out between the people of Ivrea (who are represented by those throwing oranges on foot without protection) and the Royal Napoleonic Troops (represented by those throwing oranges from carts wearing protective masks). Before the orange-pelting begins, onlookers are given an opportunity to see the horse and carriages that form part of the parade. Each year local artists decorate the carriages with a variety of stunning images, scenes and colours.

Meanwhile, through the streets of the city sweets and presents are handed out to spectators, whilst the traditional procession passes Ivrea’s streets made up of floats, theatre and musical groups that come from across Italy and beyond.

Map and hotels near Battle of the Oranges

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Getting to Battle of the Oranges by train

Ivrea is connected to the rail network via the Torino P.N. - Chivasso - Ivrea - Aosta line, and the train station lies conveniently in the town centre. From Torino Porta or Torino Porta Susa stations, it is around and hour's journey to Ivrea station.

Transport connections near to Battle of the Oranges

Ivrea Transport: Trains and Buses 0.5 km
Montalto Dora Transport: Trains 3.0 km
Borgofranco Transport: Trains 5.7 km

Visitor information table

CityIvrea
CountryItaly
AddressTown Square, Ivrea, Italy
Dates February
Websitehttps://www.storicocarnevaleivrea.it/il-carnevale/battaglia-delle-arance/