On March 25, Florence celebrates its own New Year called Capodanno Fiorentino. This tradition goes back centuries, beginning in the Middle Ages, to commemorate the Annunciation, when the angel Gabriel announced to the Virgin Mary that she would conceive and bear Jesus. 

History 

In the Middle Ages, Florence began its calendar on March 25 to recognize the Annunciation. In 1582, Pope Gregory XIII introduced the Gregorian calendar as the official calendar in Catholic countries. His calendar began on January 1, but Florence continued to use its own and celebrate their traditional New Year. In 1751, the Grand Duke Francis Stephen of Lorraine officially abolished this calendar and declared January 1 the start of the year. Florence commemorates this decree that suppressed the tradition in a plaque under the Loggia dei Lanzi in Piazza della Signoria. 

Importance

This celebration is the oldest remaining tradition of the city, symbolizing Florence’s strength and dedication. Florence uses it as an opportunity to appreciate its culture and history. The City of Florence works with local businesses to organize Florentine Week, a week of cultural events from March 21 to March 29. 

Traditions

With the holiday comes many long-standing traditions, the most popular being the Corteo Storico della Repubblica Fiorentina, the parade through the city streets to celebrate the New Year on March 25. It ends with a festival at the Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, where a basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary stands. The symbol of the festival is the fresco depicting the Annunciation inside the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata. Many people travel to pay homage to this piece. The parade begins at 15:15 at the Palagio di Parte Guelfa. 

Celebrations This Year

The Florence Civic Museums and their foundation MUS.E organize many events and activities throughout the week of Capodanno Fiorentino. All of which are free of charge, these celebrations include museum visits, guided tours, workshops, and itineraries to welcome the New Year. On March 28th, Stefano Bardini Museum will host children’s storytelling activities about il Porcellino, the city’s famous bronze boar symbol. The Santa Maria Novella complex will also offer visits focused on the artistic representations of the Annunciation. On March 29, visitors can tour the excavations at the Palazzo Vecchio and learn about fresco painting through hands-on workshops. The Museo Novecento will also offer lessons about the relationship between art and botany, specifically the Florentine lily. The Murate Art District will offer tours to discover the history and evolution of one of Florence’s cultural hubs. 

Many areas around Florence will also host their own celebrations. On March 24, local restaurants change their menu to include a Florentine New Year’s Eve dinner, featuring festive meals for the New Year. On March 29, the Fiorenza 26 Awards will recognize Florentine craftsmanship and honor organizations and individuals who have contributed to the city. From March 27 to March 29, the Piazza Santa Maria Novella will host an arts and crafts market. 

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