On the last Sunday of August, the Tuscan hill town called Montepulciano stages its annual barrel race. Two contestants from each of 8 neighborhoods pair up to roll a wine barrel through the streets of the ancient city. The race is preceded by an historic pageant complete with costumed nobility, drummers and creative flag ceremonies. The 2011 race was won by the neighborhood called Gracciano. We’ll see you at next year’s race!

Note: You may also be interested in our story/video about the Siena Palio called “Surprised Spectators.”