Florence events and festivals are a vibrant and exciting way to experience the city’s rich culture, history, and art. From food and wine festivals to art and music events, there is always something happening in Florence. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular and recurrent festivals and events held in the city, providing as much information as possible to help you plan your visit.
Calcio Storico Fiorentino
Calcio Storico Fiorentino, also known as “historic soccer,” is a traditional sport that has been played in Florence since the 16th century. It is a combination of soccer, rugby, and wrestling, and takes place in the historic Piazza Santa Croce. The four teams representing the neighborhoods of Santa Croce, Santo Spirito, Santa Maria Novella, and Santa Maria del Carmine compete against each other in a game that is both brutal and beautiful. The event takes place in June, and the final match is held on the last Sunday of the month.
Festa di San Giovanni
The Festa di San Giovanni, or the Feast of Saint John, is a celebration of the city’s patron saint and takes place on June 24th. The festival includes a procession, a firework display, and a traditional “calcio in costume” match, in which players wear medieval costumes. The highlight of the festival is the “Palio di San Giovanni,” a horse race that takes place in Piazza del Campo.
Fiera dell’Artigianato
The Fiera dell’Artigianato, or the Artisans’ Fair, is a showcase of the best of Florentine craftsmanship. The fair takes place in Piazza Santa Maria Novella and features a wide range of handcrafted items, from leather goods and jewelry to ceramics and textiles. The fair is held twice a year, in the spring and in the fall.
Fiera dei Santi
The Fiera dei Santi, or the Saints’ Fair, is a traditional market that takes place in Piazza Santissima Annunziata. The fair is dedicated to the city’s patron saints, and features a wide range of products, including food, wine, and crafts. The fair takes place in the first week of September.
Festa della Rificolona
The Festa della Rificolona is a traditional festival that takes place on the night of September 7th, the day before the Feast of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. The festival is centered around the colorful lanterns, called “rificolone,” that are carried through the streets of Florence. The festival is a celebration of the end of summer, and features music, food, and fireworks.
Fiera di San Matteo
The Fiera di San Matteo, or the Saint Matthew Fair, is a traditional market that takes place in Piazza San Lorenzo. The fair is dedicated to Saint Matthew, and features a wide range of products, including food, wine, and crafts. The fair takes place in September.
Firenze Suona Contemporanea
Firenze Suona Contemporanea is an annual contemporary music festival that takes place in the city’s churches, museums, and other cultural venues. The festival features a wide range of music, from classical and experimental to electronic and rock, and attracts both local and international artists. The festival typically takes place in November and provides an opportunity for visitors to experience the city’s rich culture and art in a unique and innovative way.
Mercato Centrale
Mercato Centrale is one of the city’s most popular and historic food markets. The market is located in the heart of Florence and features a wide range of local and seasonal products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, and wines. The market is open every day, but it is particularly lively on Saturdays and Sundays.
Fiera dell’Antiquariato
The Fiera dell’Antiquariato, or the Antiques Fair, is a showcase of the best of Florentine art and antiques. The fair takes place in Piazza Santa Maria Novella and features a wide range of items, including furniture, paintings, sculptures, and ceramics. The fair is held twice a year, in the spring and in the fall.
Fiera dei Ognissanti
The Fiera dei Ognissanti, or the All Saints’ Fair, is a traditional market that takes place in Piazza di Santa Croce. The fair is dedicated to All Saints, and features a wide range of products, including food, wine, and crafts. The fair takes place in the first week of November.
Fiera di San Niccolò
The Fiera di San Niccolò, or the Saint Nicholas Fair, is a traditional market that takes place in Piazza Santo Spirito. The fair is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, and features a wide range of products, including food, wine, and crafts. The fair takes place in December.
In conclusion, Florence is a city rich in culture, history, and art, and these festivals and events are a great way to experience all that it has to offer. From traditional sports and markets to contemporary music and art fairs, there is a wide range of events to choose from throughout the year. Plan your visit and make sure to experience the best of what the city has to offer.
