Events in Florence

Danza In Fiera - 19-22 Feb 2009 - International Trade and Show - Fortezza da Basso
A wide array of events including dance classes, competitions, performances , dancewear and costume displays. This is open to the general public at a cost of 15 Euro for a day, with children under the age of 8 gaining free entrance. With over 500 events to choose from over the course of the show, guests can expect to be spoiled for choice. Performers include the Royal Academy of Dance, and shows by FlamenQueVive, as well as the musical Il Risorto. There will be special guests and even something for the children – High School Musical 3 and Disney Channel. This event is guaranteed to be a fantastic exploration into every corner of the world of dance.

Visit the Danza in Fiera website to see the full programme »

Amici della Musica, Concert Season - 11th October 2008 - 5th April 2009 - Teatro della Pergola
The Amici della Musica organise an annual season of concerts. It is considered to be one of the most prestigious concert seasons worldwide and hosts performances of compositions by Brahms, Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss, Rachmaninov and many more impressive masters of music, performed by groups such as the Tokyo Quartet and the Attenburg Trio.

Find out more about the Amici della Musica »

Scoppio del Carro - Explosion of the Cart - 12th April 2009 - Piazza Del Duomo
This explosive tradition is said to originate from the exploits of the warriors during the First Crusade. As residents in Florence would say, shards of Christ’s sepulchre were given to Pazzino de Pazzi – the first man to climb the wall of Jerusalem and hoist the Christian banner – by his commander in chief, and brought back to Florence. It is these shards that are now used to light a dove shaped rocket on Easter Sunday that symbolises new life. Though the cart did not start out in such polytechnic extravagance, it was used to relight the fires and hearths of the local families and Pazzi family after all the lights were put out on Good Friday. On Easter Sunday, the Carro leaves from Via del Pratto and makes its way to Piazza del Duomo, pulled by white oxen, where it is lit by the archbishop. The smooth completion of the ceremony, viewed by many Florentine citizens, is said to signal a good harvest and blessing on the every day and business life of Florence.

Other useful info: Procession starts at 10am, the explosion is at 11am.

Artisans and the Palace - 15-17 May 2009 - Palazzo Corsini
This three day annual event invites the public to observe the skill and products of the traditional artisans, not just from the local area, but from all over Europe. Guests can wander around the beautiful surroundings and watch the craftsmen at their work in the open air, creating willow baskets and stunning pottery. There is also a restaurant which serves both snacks and Tuscan cuisine. Guided tours of the gardedns are available for the duration of the fair.

Other useful info: Opening hours are 10am-8:30pm

Find out more at Artisans and the Palace official site »

Florence Biennale - 5-13 December 2009 - Spadoloni Hall, in Fortezza da Basso
The Biennale is the world’s largest exhibition of contemporary art work, situated in the most prestigious exhibition centre in Florence – Spadoloni Hall of Fortezza da Basso. Performance artist, Marina Abramovic will be this year’s honoured guest. Following in the footsteps of Richard Anuszkiewicz, and Gilbert and George, she will be awarded the coveted Lorenzo il Magnifico prize.  The artwork displayed is from international artists who actively participate in the exhibition allowing communication between different cultures, styles and languages. The Biennale is committed to promoting ‘Dialogue among Civilization.’

For more details see the Florence Biennale site »