FLORENCE CARNIVAL

Two unmissable events revive one of the city’s most beloved festivals. After more than a century, the ancient tradition of Carnevale returns to Florence thanks to two extraordinary events organized in collaboration with Carnevalia and two of the most important Carnivals in the country, Viareggio and Venice.

The meaning of Carnevale
A centuries-long history that originates in the time of the Medici. A celebration that was born with deep folklore roots and which, over time, became a refined gathering occasion for nobility, up to the lavish masked balls that animated theatres, palaces and squares under the Grand Duchy of Lorraine.

The event
Inspired by this tradition that had been lost over time, on the evening of Friday, February 21, Palazzo Vecchio hosted the exclusive Grand Carnival Ball – Tribute to Venice. Guests were welcomed by Fanti di Palazzo and historical Carnival figures, including the official delegation of the Carnival of Venice.

The following day, it was time for the big, free square event. An afternoon full of fun, fantasy and spectacle. The carnival parade which started from Piazza Santa Maria Novella involved over 450 participants including the delegations of the carnivals of Viareggio, Venice, Gambettola (FC) San Giovanni in Persiceto (BO) as well as musical bands, dancers and artists including Europe’s tallest stilt walker. Upon the arrival of the procession in Piazza della Signoria, a Grand Jury decreed the winners from among the over 500 participants in the contest of the most creative mask.

Realization
For the realization of the project we thank: Accademia del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, Stranomondo agency, Circo Nero, Huma show Entertainment, Filistrucchi, Mazzanti Piume, Guido Guidi, Remo Giugni, Dj Kama, Kommando, Menarini Group, Colle Bereto, StarHotel, Omikron, Radio Tuscany, Radio Florence, Radio Bruno. An initiative of the Municipality of Florence, sponsored by the Tuscany Region, Presidency of the Regional Council, Metropolitan City, Confcommercio Florence, created with the contribution of the Florence Chamber of Commerce (for the event of 22 February), in collaboration with Carnevalia, Fondazione Carnevale of Viareggio, Venice Carnival. Event organized by Aiwa Onlus – Arab Italian Women Association, Gruppo Editoriale and Once Events.

For all further details: www.carnevaledifirenze.com