Why go
The changing Campo track, horse assignment and practice runs explain how a short race takes over so much of the city's attention. Contrada gatherings and blessings add a neighbourhood and religious scale to the public spectacle. Even when no horses are racing, contrada identities remain visible around Siena.
The full story
For each Palio, contrada leaders plan well before the horses appear in Piazza del Campo. They speak with jockeys and horse owners, while the selection of participating wards and horses introduces uncertainty that no community can fully control. As the event approaches, workers lay a temporary surface around the Campo and practice runs give riders time with the course. The painted drappellone is presented as the prize, and contrade hold gatherings around their horse and jockey. The historical procession and final race come at the end of this chain. This order matters to a visitor: a trial is part of a larger festival, not a lesser version of the race, and the symbols around town belong to communities that remain active all year. Check the current official programme for which ceremonies are public.