Held annually in Torrita di Siena, this traditional donkey race is accompanied by historical reenactments and local festivities. 

The event itself is part of a calendar of events that enliven the week before the Sunday of the race. On the weekend preceding the race, the Taverne, characteristic banquets within the walls of Torrita’s medieval castle, open to the public, where legend is combined with the unique flavours of local food and wine. Two days coloured by theatrical performances in full medieval atmosphere, where the draw and pairing of the competition batteries takes place in the presence of the Mayor and the Presidents of the contrade. And then a succession of conventions, themed exhibitions, popular games, the propitiatory dinners in the contrade headquarters (on the Friday before the race), the competition between flag-wavers and drummers (on the Saturday evening) and, finally, the Palio.

In 2026, this event will be held twice to celebrate 60 years since the event's inception and the 70th official edition of the Palio dei Somari.