The Holidays Aren't Over till the Befana arrives on the 6th
Tuscany is still celebrating the holidays, ringing in the New Year with concerts, theater and medieval re-enactments. The young and old look forward to the ugly old witch (the Befana) to bring the last of the gifts and cheer on the 6th of January. This date traditionally signals the end of the Christmas holidays: the Presepe & Nativity scenes close their doors, the lights and trees come down...and the last of the sweets are gobbled down.
If you are going to be based in Florence, have a look at our events calendar which highlights activities, fairs and markets within the borders of this amazing city and a list of the main New Year's events.
Traveling to Florence while visiting Tuscany? Remember to check out the calendar for Florence and the many select events that happen in this great city.
Author's Note: This article was last updated on December 9, 2019, to make sure we’re giving you up-to-date info, if the dates have not yet been announced then we indicate TBA (to be announced)
NATIONAL HOLIDAYS
Tuscany | LA EPIFANIA | Jan 6
The Epiphany, a National Holiday
You will find the Befana descending upon many town squares, with her old hat, broom, and long pointy nose. She will be bringing stockings, candy and small goodies to all those who have behaved during the year...are you ready?
Throughout Tuscany and Italy, this day is considered a national holiday and government offices, business and many shops are closed. Public transport will be using holiday hours (known as festivi on the schedules).
Not everyone is closed, and you will find many museums, monuments and churches open for a visit. Please note that restaurants may be busy, so you may want to make reservations where possible with our partner TheFork.
IMPORTANT EVENTS EVERY MONTH:
Tuscany | #DOMENICALMUSEO | 1° Sunday in January
A standing appointment every month
How about enjoying a bit of art, history, and culture on a Sunday? How about enjoying it with free admission? Then mark the first Sunday of the month on your calendar and make note of the following State museums (and archaeological areas) across Tuscany where you can take advantage of the free entrance.
See a List of State Museums in Tuscany
Even with everything winding down for the holidays, there is so much more that is going on in the area, you won't want to miss any of it!
Arezzo | FIERA ANTIQUARIA | January 4 & 5, 2020
The oldest and the biggest antique fair
Many years ago, Ivan Bruschi gave life to one of the oldest and biggest antique fairs in Tuscany...maybe even all of Italy. He transformed his love for the old, unique and precious into an event that fills the streets of Arezzo every first Sunday of the month and the Saturday that precedes it that month.
Panzano in Chianti | APRILANTE | 1st Sunday in month
Handcrafts & Vintage
We know they call the fair "April"ante, but it really goes all year round! This monthly market in the streets of this charming town in Chianti is where you will find handcrafts, vintage and delicious typical foods and all of it this is just outside in the countryside surrounding Florence.
Greve in Chianti | IL PAGLIAIO | Every 4th Sunday of month
Organic and Artisan Market
Piazza Matteotti is filled with locals who feature goods from their gardens, their kitchens, and their workshops. Often you will find not only great bargains but music and opportunities to do some taste testing.
Barga | MERCATINO ANTIQUARIATO | 2nd weekend of the month
head into the Garfagnana
It's not all about the food, in fact just north of Lucca in the area known as the Garfagnana you will find fall colors, flavors and an antique fair that merits a visit.
Ponte A Egola | EGOLANTIQUARIA | Every 3rd Sunday of the Month
antiques, modern objects, collection pieces and hand crafts
This recurring event brings together a wind range of objects ranging from vintage to modern, machine-made trinkets to handcrafted pieces all in the shade of the picturesque town of San Miniato between Pisa and Florence.
Pontremoli | DISFIDA DEI FALO' | Jan 17 & 31
and the challenge is on!
Two patron saints and two churches. This historic tradition, that pits church against church and saint against saint is all about who makes the most beautiful, long-lasting and luminous bonfire. The rivalry started in the medieval times between the Guelfs and Ghibellines when Castruccio Castracani the city in two. For two different appointments, magic will illuminate the night in Pontremoli when the locals compete to see who can produce the best colorful flames and show.
Grosseto | BENEDIZIONE DEGLI ANIMALI | Jan 17
the feast day of Sant'Antonio Abate
In the quaint little town of Arcidosso they celebrate Sant'Antonio Abate with the blessing of the animals. Throughout the day, there will be a parade of horses, dogs, and many other little creatures each receiving a special blessing. Traveling with your favorite four-legged companion? This might be the event for you!
Pisa | PALIO DI BUTI | Jan 19th
Celebrating Sant'Antonio Abate
This fun event is rooted in the XVII century, and today it celebrates not only its past with a fabulous reenactment of history but also a series of events highlighting local foods like the “trippate” in the main square. Every year in January, on the Sunday that follows the feast day of Sant'Antonio Abate (the 17th), the different areas of Buti dust off their horses and race for a prize in the city center.
San Gimignano | FESTA del SANTO PATRONO | Jan 31
honoring their patron Saint
In the shade of the famous towers of San Gimignano, there is an appointment you just can't miss if you are in Tuscany this January. From morning to night you will find festive stands with crafts and food which will animate piazza della Cisterna, Piazza del Duomo, Piazza delle Erbe and via San Matteo.
This is a great opportunity to be curious and lose yourself among the colors, the folklore and the traditions of San Gimignano.
LOOK FOR THESE EVENTS IN JANUARY
Arezzo | CLASSIC MOTORS | Jan 11 -12, 2020
vintage cars, motorcycles, pullman, tractors and bikes
A one of a kind market centering around everything to do with the automobile and transport sector - include sports cars, collector pieces, and parts...you name and you will find it in Arezzo this weekend.
Pisa | RASSEGNA DI ARTI PER LA SALUTE | 4-6 & 11-12 January, 2020
caught between dreams, magic and wellbeing
Celebrating their yet another gathering, the theme is magically floating between reality and non. Here you will find information and groups ranging from holistic disciplines to ethical nutrition, vegans and vegetarians. Come and have a look, there is bound to be something that tickles your fancy.
