Events in Florence (Italy)

Various important events, some of international importance, take place in Florence in the course of the year. In the city that produced modern melodrama, there is the long-established and world-renowned Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, a festival of classical music, opera and ballet held in spring. The season of opera and symphonic music at the Teatro Comunale is also very important. The city also plays host to a number of important international fashion fairs: Pitti Immagine, Pitti Uomo, Pitti Bimbo and Pitti Filati take place twice a year in the exhibition centre of the Fortezza da Basso. Florence also stages a number of traditional events dating back centuries. One of these is Calcio in Costume, a medieval form of football in period dress; it now takes the form of a competition between the city's four historic neighbourhoods, organized in three games played in June. The 24th of the same month is the feast day of St John, the patron saint of the city, during which there is a spectacular firework display. Another important and very ancient tradition is the Scoppio del Carro ("Explosion of the Cart") on Easter Sunday morning. A cart pulled by white oxen processes through the city centre, coming to a halt in front of the cathedral, where its load of crackers and fireworks are then set off. During the winter you can enjoy yourself skate on ice in front of the church of Santa Croce opened till late in the night. During late Spring and all Summer when nights are quite warm in every square of the town there are events, such as concerts, or representation with always a bar where you can refresh yourself. Most important events in Florence are organized in Historical residence Capponi Palace