Are there any festivals going on med Sept to mid Oct?

Hi Charlie...you can always search this question on the internet, there are many places and dates...maybe someone will have information for you...If you have already booked the hotels you can inquire by e-mail with the management. Have fun, it is a great time to visit Italy!

Live.... This will be our fourth trip this time of year and love it. Usually still warm, not much rain, and the crowds have diminished.

Nice Charlie! I go every year that time. We had rain in Rome and Capri with very cold weather in early Oct. 2016...it was a bummer :)
I hope you hit some great festivals!

What kinds of festivals so we know what to suggest?

Here is a list of some festivals Rick posted recently.

https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/italy/festivals

I managed to hit a festival in Monterosso al Mare but it was early September. It was the Fiesta di Santa Maria Nascente Madonna di Fegina.

Your timing might be perfect for catching the Anchovy Festival in Monterosso al Mare!! We were there at about that time a couple of years ago and happened upon it by dumb luck. It was amazing!

The Biennale Arte 2017 will still be in Venice when you are there.

Charlie,

You may want to attend the Feast of St. Francis in Assisi, October 2-4.

Edit to add...

I almost forgot.... While in Lucca, you may enjoy attending a Puccini concert.

Thank you all for your replies and information. Can't wait to be in Italy again.