Florence and Tuscany are regions that offer a unique blend of history, art, and culture, making them a prime destination throughout the year. However, there is something particularly special about visiting in September. As the summer crowds begin to thin and the weather becomes more temperate, the region comes alive with a host of vibrant events and festivals. From traditional harvest celebrations and open-air concerts to art exhibitions and food fairs, September is a time when both locals and visitors can truly experience the essence of Tuscan life. In this article, we’ll guide you through the most exciting events happening in Florence and across Tuscany this September, ensuring you don’t miss out on the region’s rich cultural calendar. Whether you’re a lover of art, food, music, or history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Events:
Beat Festival
Date: 29 August – 1 September & 4–7 September 2024
Location: Serravalle Park, Empoli
The Beat Festival returns to Empoli for its 10th edition, offering a mix of live music, DJ sets, food trucks, craft beer, and a vintage market. While the Main Stage concerts require tickets, many other festival areas are free to enter. Highlights include performances by Marlene Kuntz, Fulminacci, and a special 90s nostalgia night. Tickets are available through major platforms, and concert-goers receive discounts at Empoli’s museums.
Settembre Prato è Spettacolo
Date: 27 August – 12 September 2024
Location: Prato, Tuscany
Settembre Prato è Spettacolo is a vibrant festival held in Prato from 27th August to 12th September 2024, featuring a diverse lineup of music, theater, and cultural events. Hosted in the city’s iconic squares and venues, the festival showcases performances by renowned Italian and international artists, as well as local talent. With a mix of concerts, live shows, and street performances, it’s a highlight of Prato’s cultural calendar, offering entertainment for all ages.
Firenze Jazz Festival
Date: 4–15 September 2024
Location: Various venues across Florence, Italy
The new edition of the Florence Jazz Festival, one of Italy’s premier jazz festivals, returns from 4th to 15th September 2024, filling Florence with dozens of events, concerts, and performances in a series of stunning locations. Highlights include concerts at iconic venues such as Villa Bardini, Villa Strozzi, and several historic spots in the charming Oltrarno district. This festival stands out not only for its impressive lineup of international and local jazz artists but also for its mission to engage more entities in promoting artistic events. Concerts and performances are spread across historical villas, Renaissance cloisters, concert halls, and intimate clubs, creating a magical setting for both seasoned jazz aficionados and newcomers to the genre. Whether you’re exploring the city’s vibrant music scene or experiencing jazz for the first time, the Firenze Jazz Festival offers an unforgettable cultural experience in one of Italy’s most beautiful cities.
The Rificolona Festival
Date: 7 September 2024
Location: Florence, Italy
The Rificolona Festival is a beloved tradition in Florence, celebrated every year on the evening of 7 September. This vibrant event dates back to the 17th century and is closely linked to the Feast of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. It was originally a farmers’ pilgrimage to the Basilica of Santissima Annunziata, with participants carrying lanterns to light their way. Today, it has evolved into a colorful lantern parade through the streets of Florence. Children and families create intricate paper lanterns, illuminated by candles, and join the procession, starting from Piazza Santa Felicita and ending at Piazza Santissima Annunziata. The festival is a joyful celebration of creativity and tradition, with music, entertainment, and a sense of community that lights up the historic city.
Palio dei Ciuchi
Date: 7–8 September 2024
Location: Asciano, Tuscany
The Palio dei Ciuchi, or “Donkey Palio,” is an annual event held in the picturesque town of Asciano, in the heart of Tuscany. Taking place over two days, this unique event is a playful parody of the famous Palio di Siena. Instead of racing horses, local competitors race donkeys through the town’s streets, creating a lively and humorous atmosphere. The Palio dei Ciuchi is not only about the race itself; it also features medieval-style processions, costumed parades, and various performances. The event showcases the deep-rooted traditions of Asciano, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying a lighthearted spectacle.
Historical Procession of Prato
Date: 8 September 2024
Location: Prato, Tuscany
The Historical Procession of Prato is a grand annual event that takes place on 8th September, commemorating the city’s deep historical and religious traditions. This colorful and elaborate procession is held in honor of the *Sacra Cintola* (Sacred Belt), a cherished relic believed to be the Virgin Mary’s belt, which has been a symbol of Prato’s religious heritage since the Middle Ages. The day features a majestic parade through the streets of Prato, with participants dressed in historical costumes representing the medieval and Renaissance periods. The procession includes flag-throwers, musicians, and noble figures, recreating a vivid picture of the city’s past. This event is not only a religious celebration but also a cultural festival, drawing crowds from near and far. It offers visitors a chance to experience Prato’s rich history, its vibrant community spirit, and the beauty of its medieval streets, all set against the backdrop of an important historical tradition.
Palio della Balestra
Date: 8 September 2024
Location: Sansepolcro, Tuscany
The Palio della Balestra is an ancient crossbow competition held on 8th September in Sansepolcro, Tuscany. Dating back to the 15th century, it sees local crossbowmen compete against rivals from Gubbio in Piazza Torre di Berta. The event features a colorful parade with participants in Renaissance costumes, followed by a thrilling contest of marksmanship. This historic tradition offers visitors a unique glimpse into Sansepolcro’s past, combining medieval pageantry with impressive displays of skill, all set against the town’s beautiful architectural backdrop.
Baroque Festival
Date: 8–29 September 2024
Location: San Gimignano, Tuscany
The Baroque Festival in San Gimignano is a month-long celebration of baroque music and culture, held from 8th to 29th September 2024. Set in the picturesque medieval town of San Gimignano, renowned for its stunning towers and historical charm, the festival brings together internationally acclaimed musicians and ensembles to perform a wide repertoire of baroque compositions. Concerts are hosted in some of the town’s most beautiful venues, including historic churches, palazzos, and intimate squares, providing an atmospheric backdrop that complements the grandeur and elegance of baroque music. The festival offers a variety of performances, from orchestral pieces to intimate chamber music, along with special events such as lectures and workshops dedicated to the baroque period. It’s an enchanting experience for music lovers, as well as anyone looking to enjoy the unique ambiance of San Gimignano while indulging in the rich sounds of baroque masterpieces.
Assedio alla Villa
Date: 9–22 September 2024
Location: Poggio a Caiano, Tuscany
The Assedio alla Villa is an annual historical reenactment event held in Poggio a Caiano, celebrating the Renaissance heritage of the Medici Villa. From 9th to 22nd September 2024, the town comes alive with parades, performances, and reenactments depicting life during the Renaissance period. The event features period costumes, traditional crafts, music, and local food, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the rich history of the region.
Bacco Artigiano
Date: 26–29 September 2024
Location: Rufina, Tuscany
Bacco Artigiano is a renowned wine festival held in Rufina from 26th to 29th September 2024, celebrating the region’s rich winemaking tradition. The event features wine tastings, local food, and craft stalls, alongside cultural activities and the historic *Carro Matto* parade, where a cart of wine barrels is brought to Florence. Visitors can enjoy the finest wines of the Chianti Rufina area, paired with traditional Tuscan cuisine, making it a must-visit for wine lovers and those interested in Tuscan culture.
Grape Festival
Date: 29 September 2024
Location: Impruneta, Tuscany
The Grape Festival in Impruneta, held on 29th September 2024, is one of Tuscany’s oldest and most famous harvest celebrations. This lively event includes colorful parades, floats decorated with grapes, traditional music, and performances that celebrate the local winemaking heritage. The festival culminates in a competition between the town’s districts for the most creative float, all while visitors enjoy local wines and food. It’s a vibrant and joyous celebration of the grape harvest, offering an authentic taste of Tuscan culture.
September in Florence and Tuscany transforms the region into a vibrant hub of cultural events, offering an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in Italy’s rich traditions, art, and history. From world-class music festivals like Firenze Jazz Festival and Settembre Prato è Spettacolo to historical celebrations such as Florence’s Rificolona and the Palio della Balestra in Sansepolcro, there’s a chance to experience the spirit of the past firsthand. The region also celebrates its culinary heritage with wine and food festivals like Bacco Artigiano in Rufina and the Grape Festival in Impruneta. These events create a unique blend of art, tradition, and the joy of life, making September the perfect time to discover the authentic charm of Tuscany. It’s a prime opportunity to experience Italian hospitality, savor local flavors, and participate in events that seamlessly blend history with contemporary culture.
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