Local Festivals and Events in Florence 🎉

Florence, Italy, is not only renowned for its rich history, art, and architecture but also for the vibrant local festivals and events that take place throughout the year. Here are some of the must-see events you should consider when planning your visit to this beautiful city.

Calendimaggio 🏯

One of the oldest and most famous historical reenactments in Italy, Calendimaggio is held in May. This medieval festival celebrates the friendly rivalry between two historic districts (Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella) through various competitions, parades, and traditional activities.

Scoppio del Carro 🎇

Held on the Sunday before Easter, Scoppio del Carro is a unique event that dates back to the 14th century. The main attraction is an elaborate wooden wagon pulled by oxen through the streets of Florence, followed by fireworks and religious ceremonies in the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.

Festa di San Giovanni 🌹

Celebrated on June 24th, the Feast of St. John (San Giovanni) is a city-wide festival that takes place along the river Arno. The night before, young Florentines gather flowers to create garlands and decorate the bridges over the Arno, while fireworks light up the sky.

Maggio Musicale Fiorentino 🎶

For music lovers, the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino is an essential event. Held annually from April to June, it features a series of operas, concerts, and ballets performed in some of Florence’s most beautiful venues, such as Teatro del Maggio and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.

Festa di Sant’Ambrogio 🍴

Held twice a year, on April 12th (St. Ambrose’s Day) and October 7th (Feast of St. Ambrose), this local market in the Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood transforms into a bustling fairground with food stalls, live music, and street performances. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample traditional Tuscan dishes like lampredotto sandwiches!

Fiera di Santa Croce 🛍️

Held on September 17th in honor of St. Cross (Santa Croce), this lively fair takes place along Via de’ Tornabuoni and offers a fantastic opportunity to shop for souvenirs, antiques, and local crafts from various vendors.

Firenze Rocks 🎸

For rock music enthusiasts, Firenze Rocks is an unmissable event that takes place in July at the Scoppio del Carro square. Featuring international and Italian rock bands, it’s a three-day celebration of music, art, and culture that attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Exploring Florence during these local festivals and events is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, traditions, and vibrant spirit. So, mark your calendars and plan your trip accordingly! 🗓️💭✈️