Florence Celebrates its Ancient Modern Year: A Week of Tradition and Festivities
From March 21st to 29th, 2026, the city of Florence will once again embrace its unique heritage with the “Settimana del Fiorentino” (Week of the Florentine). This annual event, organized by the City of Florence in collaboration with numerous local organizations, celebrates the city’s historical New Year, falling on March 25th – the Feast of the Annunciation.
A Deep Dive into Florentine History
The Capodanno Fiorentino, or Florentine New Year, dates back to the Middle Ages. Unlike the modern Gregorian calendar’s January 1st, Florence traditionally marked the beginning of the year on March 25th, coinciding with the Annunciation. This tradition continued until 1749, even after the adoption of the Gregorian calendar in 1582. The week-long celebration aims to revive and honor these deeply rooted customs.
Cultural Highlights and City-Wide Participation
The Settimana del Fiorentino is a diverse program encompassing cultural events, guided tours, markets, and activities for all ages. Key participants include the Florentine Civic Museums, MUS.E, the Metropolitan City of Florence, and local libraries. The Biblioteche Comunali, including the Biblioteca delle Oblate, Palagio di Parte Guelfa, Pietro Thouar, Villa Bandini, and the Biblioteca dell’Orticoltura, will host special events, workshops, and readings focused on Florentine identity and local history.
MUS.E and the Civic Museums: Free Access and Special Tours
MUS.E and the Florentine Civic Museums are offering a series of free visits and activities during the week. These will focus on the origins of the festival and the meaning of “fiorentinità” – the essence of being Florentine. Special access will be granted to historical landmarks like the Tower of San Niccolò and Porta San Frediano.
Key Events to Mark on Your Calendar
Several specific events are planned throughout the week:
- March 21st: Piazza Santa Croce will feature “Il Grande Pinocchio,” a large-scale artwork celebrating the 200th anniversary of Carlo Collodi’s birth.
- March 24th: Restaurants and venues participating in the event will offer a traditional Florentine dinner, celebrating local gastronomy.
- March 25th: The traditional historical parade (Corteo storico) will process through the city streets to the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata.
- March 26th: The Premio Fiorenza 26 awards will recognize individuals and organizations contributing to the local community.
- March 28th: A Calcio Storico (Historical Football) tournament will be held in memory of Alessandro Dei.
Illuminating the City: A Visual Spectacle
Throughout the week, Florence’s historical gates and the David of Michelangelo will be illuminated in red, thanks to Firenze Smart, adding a vibrant visual element to the celebrations.
Test Your Florentine Knowledge: The “Quiz del Fiorentino”
The Comune di Firenze is once again hosting the “Quiz del Fiorentino,” an online quiz to test your knowledge of Florence. Ten participants who identify as true “fiorentini doc” will be invited to Palazzo Vecchio to receive a special gift.
FAQ: Settimana del Fiorentino
Q: What is the Capodanno Fiorentino?
A: It’s the traditional Florentine New Year, celebrated on March 25th, the Feast of the Annunciation.
Q: Is the Settimana del Fiorentino free to attend?
A: Many events, including those at the Civic Museums and organized by MUS.E, are free.
Q: Where can I find a complete schedule of events?
A: Details can be found on the Comune di Firenze website.
Q: What is “fiorentinità”?
A: It refers to the unique cultural identity and spirit of being Florentine.
Did you understand? Florence continued to celebrate its New Year on March 25th for over 200 years after the Gregorian calendar was adopted!
Explore more about Florentine culture and history on the Comune di Firenze website.
