Stracittadina Novolese 2026 — The National Road Race Through Salento’s Olive Groves

For over twenty years, the small Salento town of Novoli has hosted one of southern Italy’s most beloved running events: the Stracittadina Novolese. Held annually in the final days of October, this FIDAL-sanctioned national road race draws athletes and running clubs from across Italy to compete through a landscape of ancient olive groves, dry-stone walls, and the rich red earth of the Negroamaro wine country.

A Race With Serious Credentials

The Stracittadina Novolese is sanctioned by both FIDAL (Italian Athletics Federation) and CONI (Italian National Olympic Committee), and is organized with the patronage of the Puglia Region, the Province of Lecce, and the municipalities of Novoli and Carmiano. This official recognition guarantees a professionally organized course with electronic timing, medical support, and official classifications — attracting serious competitors alongside recreational runners.

The Race Experience

The competitive 10K route winds through Novoli’s countryside and historic streets, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and small-town Puglian charm. Non-competitive categories and shorter distances are also available, making the event accessible to families and casual runners. The autumn timing is ideal for running — Salento in late October offers mild temperatures (typically 15–20°C), soft golden light, and the countryside at its most evocative as olive harvest season begins.

What to Expect

• Competitive 10K — The main event. Certified course with FIDAL timing, official classifications by age category, and prizes for top finishers.
• Non-Competitive Walk/Run — A shorter recreational distance (typically 4–5 km) open to all ages. No timing pressure, just the joy of running through the Salento countryside.
• Kids’ Races — Short sprints for children and teenagers, encouraging the next generation of Puglian runners.
• Post-Race Festa — After the running, the town square transforms into a celebration with local food stands serving pasticciotto, rustico leccese, and Negroamaro wine, accompanied by live pizzica music.

Registration and Practical Info

Registration typically opens in September via the official event channels. Fees are modest (around €10–15 for the competitive race, less for non-competitive categories) and include a race bib, timing chip, technical T-shirt, and post-race refreshments. On-site registration is available on race day but early registration is recommended as the event has grown significantly in recent years.

Novoli is a 15-minute drive or train ride (Ferrovie Sud-Est) from Lecce. The race village is set up in the main piazza, within walking distance from the train station. The event embodies the spirit of Salento’s “Valle della Cupa” — a region where sport, community, and the rhythms of rural life intersect beautifully.