Italia Wave Festival

(archived page)

Arezzo Wave Festival is an annual event spread over a range of venues close to the centre of Arezzo. Mostly pop and contemporary music, with some theatre and experimental events, the festival boasts an impressive lineup. When I attended in 2004, acts included Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and Cypress Hill.

Arezzo Wave Festival is one of the marvellous free events one sometimes comes across in Italy, sponsored by bodies including the local authority. It's hard to see how they benefit; hotels aren't sold out even during the festival, and most festival-goers seem to be using the camping facilities provided and staying away from the shops and the historical town centre. Although around 200,000 people attended the 2004 event, the impact on the town did not seem enough to deter wary holidaymakers. The station area was busy, but although we observed a few crusties with their dogs, and a certain amount of juggling and unwashed hair, Arezzo retained its tranquil, unhurried character.

For younger tourists travelling in the Tuscany area, the festival makes a pleasant extra to a holiday, with a chance to enjoy free live music on a warm summer evening while seeing a different face of Italian culture.

The Main Stage is in Arezzo's football stadium (the Stadio Comunale), a 20-minute walk (or short bus ride) from the station. Evening shows in 2004 were peaceful affairs. Although makeshift bars served alcohol, as elsewhere in Italy there was no atmosphere of drunken rowdiness, and families with small children mixed with dreadlocked teenagers.