Page 77 - Off the Tourist Trail - 1000 Unexpected Travel Alternatives (Part 1 of 2)

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FESTIVALS AND PARTIES

MAIN IMAGE Townsfolk in medieval costume displaying their flag-
throwing skills before the palio in Asti BELOW (left to right) Rooftop
view of the town of Asti; the Asti palio in full swing

4 MORE HORSE RACES TO
RIVAL SIENA’S PALIO

NAADAM, MONGOLIA This ancient festival, held each July,
is a celebration of equestrian events, archery, and wrestling.
Its roots lie in the nomad wedding assemblies and hunting
extravaganzas of the Mongolian army.
WHITE TURF, SWITZERLAND The White Turf international
horse races on St Moritz’s frozen lake are one of the most
spectacular winter events in Europe. They take place in February.
SA SARTIGLIA, SARDINIA, ITALY In the build-up to Lent in
the town of Oristano, horsemen compete with one another in
an ancient tournament to select the masked rider who will
conquer the ring and the symbolic star.
BIRDSVILLE RACES, AUSTRALIA This popular outback racing
derby is held in Queensland in September to raise money for
charity. Picnickers and campers arrive from all over Australia to
participate in the fun in this remote location. When the races
are on, the local population increases from 100 to over 6,000.

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