The 17 contrade

The Legend of la BEFANA

Passion of Christ on Palm Sunday

The Grassina Passion Play

Gothic Dream

The Race or Bravio of St. Reparata

Wish upon a star

Halloween

Bacco Artigiano at Rufina

And who was St. Zenobius?

A home from home through the year

More Tuscan history

The Scottish market

a mardi gras made in Florence

Carnival time
[Susan Glasspool]

Centuries ago Florence celebrated Carnival with splendid festivities that probably originated in Roman times. Carnival became a major event with masked balls, parades and theatrical performances. The last day, or Mardi Gras, ended with the burning of the so-called “Carnival dummy” and firework displays along the Arno. Stenterello, a famous Florentine Carnival character, perfectly reflected the Florentine humour.
Florence has revived its ancient carnival traditions in an exotic parade that includes all the foreign communities in the city. It departs from Piazza Ognissanti on February 12th (at around 2pm), and moves through the city to reach Piazza della Signoria. Headed by the traditional Florentine Republic in costume, this fantastic parade includes groups from Mexico, Senegal, Brazil, Sweden, Columbia and Bangladesh plus the Florentine carriages and more besides.
Anyone can join in the fun, so hire or invent a costume and get ready for March 6th!
CARNIVAL PARADE
March 6th (start at 2pm)
from Piazza Ognissanti to Piazza della Signoria


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