Once a year, the streets and piazzas of Verona's historic center become a giant playground. Tocatì, the international festival of traditional street games, invites families to try centuries-old games under the guidance of volunteers, watch folk performances from around the world, and enjoy food from local and international vendors. It's a celebration that has earned UNESCO recognition as a best practice for safeguarding intangible heritage.
What Does “Tocatì” Mean?
In Veronese dialect, “Tocatì” means “it's your turn.” It's what children say when they're about to play a game with friends. The festival's symbol, a little boy pointing at an imaginary playmate, embodies that invitation to join in. Throughout the city, large colored silhouettes guide visitors to more than 50 game stations.
The name sets the tone: this is a participatory festival, not a spectator event. For the 2026 edition, the official site confirms that Ireland is the guest of honor, bringing its traditional games and sports to meet the Italian courtyard and piazza traditions. That spirit of exchange has been part of Tocatì since it began in 2003.
Where and When Tocatì Takes Place
Tocatì is held annually in September in Verona's historic center. For 2026, the dates are September 18–20, and the festival transforms the piazzas of Veronetta as well as other central squares into a meeting space between distant worlds. The festival's official site confirms the dates, but it's always wise to check closer to your trip for any schedule changes.
During the festival weekend, the entire historic center of Verona—covering about 200,000 square meters, including the area along the Adige River—becomes a traffic-free zone. This creates a safe, car-free environment for children to roam, and the whole city feels like a stage. The festival is organized by Associazione Giochi Antichi in collaboration with the Comune di Verona.
Since Tocatì takes place in the open air, expect a relaxed, stroller-friendly atmosphere in most areas. However, cobblestone streets are common in Verona's old town, so a sturdy stroller is a good idea. The festival has been drawing large crowds in past editions—sometimes exceeding 200,000 visitors over the weekend—so plan for busy piazzas, especially during peak afternoon hours. Check the official map for accessible routes and facilities.
Hands-On Games and Activities for Children
The heart of Tocatì is hands-on play. Children can learn to spin a trottola (spinning top), shoot a slingshot, build a cerbottana from simple materials, or jump into a game of hopscotch drawn on the pavement. Everything is supervised by festival volunteers, which reassures parents that their kids are in safe hands while they explore.
The game stations are scattered throughout the historic center, so you can wander from one piazza to the next and stumble upon a new activity. The colored silhouettes act as your map, making it easy to find the next game. For toddlers and young children, there are simpler options like ring toss or sack races, while older kids might enjoy the challenge of a tug-of-war tournament in Piazza delle Erbe.
All activities are free and open to everyone, reflecting the festival's inclusive spirit. But it's not just about play: volunteers also explain the origins and rules of each game, turning every station into a mini-lesson in cultural heritage. This educational layer is what sets Tocatì apart as a family experience.
Special Focus: S-cianco and Other Traditional Games
One game holds a special place at Tocatì: s-cianco, also known as tip-cat or gillidanda, considered an ancestor of baseball. It was the passion for s-cianco that led a group of Veronese players and the Associazione Giochi Antichi to found the festival in 2003. Today, a real s-cianco tournament is held during the weekend, attracting players and spectators alike.
S-cianco is played with two sticks: a larger one to strike a smaller pointed stick, sending it into the air. For children, it's a safe and exciting game that requires little equipment. The tournament adds a competitive edge, but there are always casual games where kids can try it themselves under supervision.
International Guests and Cultural Performances
Each year, Tocatì invites a foreign country or region to present its traditional games, folklore, and cuisine. In the 2026 edition, Ireland is the guest of honor, bringing its own games and sports that echo the courtyard culture of Verona. This cultural exchange enriches the festival, offering visitors a chance to see traditional dress, music, and dance from around the world.
The performances are family-friendly and scheduled throughout the day, but exact times may vary from year to year. It's best to check the festival's program on the official site closer to the event to plan which performances to catch. The visitverona.it page also highlights the folk music and dancing as a highlight for families.
Food Stalls and Eating with Kids
Food stands are an integral part of Tocatì, offering a variety of local Italian dishes and specialties from the invited country. For 2026, expect to find Irish treats alongside Veronese classics like polenta and grilled meats. The festival's official sources mention that food stands are present, but specific vendors or cuisines aren't detailed in advance.
Because the festival takes place outdoors, queues can form during peak meal times, so consider eating slightly earlier at around 11:30 AM and 6:30 PM to avoid the crowds. Many stalls offer small portions that are easy for tiny hands. For picky eaters, you're in the heart of Verona, so there are also plenty of nearby restaurants and cafes that welcome families.
Water and snacks are widely available, but it's always smart to bring your own reusable bottle. Since the streets are closed to traffic, you'll find many spots to sit on benches or the edges of fountains for a quick picnic—just remember to keep the historic center clean and use the recycling bins that are provided.
Practical Tips for Families
Planning ahead makes a big difference when visiting Tocatì with kids. First, arrive early in the morning around 10 AM to beat the biggest crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. The festival typically runs from morning until evening, but exact hours can change each year, so check the official site for the current schedule.
For strollers, consider bringing a lightweight, all-terrain model due to the cobblestones and the crowds. Designate a meeting point in case you get separated, and take advantage of the many shaded spots under the awnings of historic buildings for rest breaks. Also, remember that the festival is free, so there's no need to purchase entry tickets.
Accommodation can fill up quickly for the festival weekend, so book well in advance if you're staying overnight. Public parking is limited in the historic center, so it's often easier to park outside and use public transport to reach the festival area. The official Verona tourism site provides information on getting around, and the festival map includes accessible routes for strollers and wheelchairs.
Exploring Verona's Historic Center During the Festival
With the car ban, families can explore Verona's landmarks without worrying about traffic. During breaks from games, you can visit the Arena di Verona, a Roman amphitheater just steps from the festival area, or wander through Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza Bra. The festival provides a unique backdrop to these historic sites, mixing play with culture seamlessly.
For a taste of the city beyond the festival, consider a family-friendly walking tour or a visit to one of Verona's many churches and museums. The festival's traffic-free zone covers a large area, so you can easily combine sightseeing with game stations. Just remember to keep an eye on the time, as volunteers and performers begin to wrap up as the evening approaches.
How to Get the Most Out of a Family Day at Tocatì
The key to a successful family visit is to be strategic. Start your day with a map at the official info point, and plan a route that hits the most interesting game stations for your children. Prioritize the s-cianco tournament if you have older kids, and schedule breaks for meals and rest to prevent meltdowns.
Also, be prepared for a full day of activity: wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen and hats, and use the festival's free water refill stations to stay hydrated. For stressed parents, remember that the festival is about having fun, so don't over-schedule. Let the kids lead the way, and you'll all have a memorable experience.
Plan Your Visit
Tocatì is a rare opportunity for families to experience a city turned into a playground. With its hands-on games, cultural performances, and food stalls, it's a weekend that blends fun, education, and tradition. By checking the official site for the latest schedule and map, you can plan a seamless day that your kids will talk about for years.
Remember that specific details like hours and performers can change, so always verify closer to the event. And while you're in Verona, take time to explore the rest of the city, from the Arena to the river's edge. Tocatì offers a unique window into Verona's living culture, and your family will leave with a deeper appreciation for the simple joys of playing together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tocatì suitable for children?
Yes, Tocatì is designed with children in mind, offering dozens of hands-on traditional games under volunteer supervision. Kids can try spinning tops, slingshots, and hopscotch, among many others. The festival is a family-friendly, traffic-free event that welcomes kids of all ages.
What is Tocatì in Verona?
Tocatì is an international festival of traditional street games held annually in September in Verona's historic center. It features game stations scattered across the city, folk performances, and food stands. The festival has been recognized by UNESCO as a best practice for safeguarding intangible heritage.
Where does Tocatì take place?
Tocatì takes place in the historic center of Verona, especially in the Veronetta district and other piazzas. The entire area, covering about 200,000 square meters, is closed to traffic during the festival, turning it into a giant playground.
Are there food stalls at Tocatì?
Yes, food stands are part of the festival, offering local and international cuisine, including dishes from the guest country. While specific vendors are not listed in advance, you'll find a variety of options to satisfy hungry kids.
What does 'Tocatì' mean?
In Veronese dialect, 'Tocatì' means 'it's your turn.' It reflects the invitation to join in games, which is the festival's core spirit. The name highlights the participatory nature of the event.
