Christmas in Florence approaches
Christmas is almost upon us…..A festive atmosphere reigns in all the cities and lovely Florence is no exception. During the period just before Christmas, the city promotes numerous events that increase the magic and warm up those cold winter days. Thus, whilst the children play with their advent calendars, prepare to make a note of the countless activities scheduled for this December in Florence.
Florence Christmas Markets
It wouldn’t be Christmas without the typical Christmas markets, and Florence hosts some of the prettiest during the month of December. There is a mountain of gift ideas, items to decorate your home or Christmas tree, and lots of typical festive food on offer. They start with the classic “Weihnachtsmarkt” or typical German Christmas Market which will be set up at Piazza de la Santa Croce from the 30th of November to the 18th of December. 55 little wooden huts from 16 European countries will be selling items ranging from handcrafted Christmas decorations to mulled wine and toys for children of all ages.
And with the arrival of the bank holiday weekend in Florence in celebration of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, other Christmas markets will be springing up in the Tuscan capital. On the 8th of December, the Piazza Santissima Annunziata will be hosting the “Fierucola dell’Immacolata”, the “Libro in Piazza” (book fair) will be held at Piazza Strozzi, and up until the 11th of December visitors will be able to pass by ARTour at Piazza Santa Maria Novella, comprising a show dedicated to local craftsmen who shed light on old trades, history and figures in Tuscan tradition.
From the 7th to the 11th of December there will be “Florence Nöel”, at Leopolda Station where gifts, solidarity, games, the circus and the taste of Christmas will be the focus. It is meant for children and adults alike, and will feature a fairy forest, Santa’s Grotto, numerous cooking and juggling workshops, and a circus to enjoy. Acrobatics, sweet treats, presents, delights for the sight and the palate…..To conclude, all the ingredients you need to enjoy a marvellous day in the company of your loved ones.
If you would like a list of all the Christmas Markets in Florence, we suggest that you take a look at the official website.
Music and other activities
Christmas isn’t all about markets. As you wander through the city, you will find many things to do which have been organised by the Florence City Hall for you to enjoy as a family.
On the 26th of November for example there will be an ice rink installed in the “Parterre” at Piazza della Libertà, which over the years has become a symbol of the spirit of Christmas and winter. Every year, there is a special day over Christmas when you can spend a fun day with your friends or family.
However, the fun in Florence doesn’t stop there. Up until the Epiphany, the city will play host to free theatre productions, folklore and live music. Amongst the many Christmas concerts on offer, there is the opening of the “Nuovo Teatro dell’Opera” (New Florence Opera Theatre), on Wednesday the 21st of December which mustn’t be forgotten. The orchestra conductor, Indian Zubin Mehta, will be in charge of commemorating this important milestone in the city’s history. The opening acts will climax on New Year’s Eve with a sublime performance by Zubin Mehta himself dedicated to Italian opera.
Lara - Marketing Team