August 2026 in Florence and the surrounding area

San Lorenzo, major exhibitions nearing their end, the historic Lastra fair, Calici di Stelle, Vallombrosa, and much more.

August traditions

August 10th is a significant date in Florence, as San Lorenzo (Saint Lawrence) is the city's co-patron saint. The popular festival—held both inside and in front of the basilica of the same name, designed by Brunelleschi—is one of the oldest and most cherished by Florentines. It dates back to the mid-15th century, when the Medici family settled in the neighborhood, taking up residence in the palazzo built by Michelozzo for Cosimo the Elder. San Lorenzo immediately became the burial place for members of the illustrious dynasty (from Cosimo the Elder himself to Lorenzo the Magnificent, and from Cosimo I and all the other Grand Dukes down to the Electress Palatine). While the Old Sacristy formed the initial burial site, the actual mausoleum was created later with the monumental Medici Chapels complex. The event features a procession by the Historical Parade of the Florentine Republic, which sets off at 10:15 AM from Piazza di Parte Guelfa and makes its way to the Basilica of San Lorenzo. In the evening, the square comes alive with the traditional free distribution of watermelon and pasta with meat sauce for everyone, followed by a concert on the church forecourt to conclude the day.

The 245th Antica Fiera di Lastra(Historic Fair of Lastra) will take place in the municipality of Lastra a Signa from August 15 to 30. True to tradition, the fair begins symbolically on August 15—the height of summer—with the reading of the ancient edict and the procession of white oxen; the main festivities then get into full swing from August 28 to 30, featuring historical reenactments, markets, performances, music, art exhibitions, fireworks, and much more.

Major events in August 2026

In Florence and the surrounding area

1. Cultural events

Art enthusiasts can visit the exhibition dedicated to Rothko at Palazzo Strozzi until August 23—an opportunity to immerse oneself in the intensity and expressive power of the master of color fields. Also on view until August 25 at Palazzo Medici Riccardi is "Florence Déco – 1920s Atmospheres", an exhibition exploring Florence’s role in the art movement that emerged in Europe and the United States during the 1920s. Finally, the Museo degli Innocenti is hosting an exhibition by Hugo Suissas; the Lisbon-born artist is one of the most compelling figures in contemporary international photography.

From August 7 to 23, the "Cinema Under the Stars" series returns to the Roman Theatre of Fiesole—one of the most atmospheric spots in the Florence area to enjoy open-air cinema on summer evenings. Meanwhile, from August 28 to 30, the *Lasciati Fiorire* Festival at the Lumen venue offers an experience combining live music, talks, workshops, podcasts, and sustainable markets.

2. Vineyards, nature, and sport

For outdoor and hillside enthusiasts, August offers some compelling events: the ever-popular "Calici di Stelle" (Goblets of Stars)—promoted by the Wine Tourism Movement—runs until August 16. It involves wineries across the province of Florence, Tuscany, and all of Italy, featuring fine wine tastings, meetings with producers, and moonlit walks through the vineyards. On August 28, 29, and 30, and September 6, the Generative Master Forest Festival returns to the magnificent Vallombrosa Nature Reserve; it is an opportunity to reflect on the relationship between nature, culture, and the local area through gatherings, music, experiences, and activities immersed in the forest landscape. Finally, from August 18 to 22, Scandicci hosts the "Florence-Rome-Florence," a non-stop international cycling *randonnée covering 1,210 kilometers. This long-distance event will see cycling enthusiasts take to the road, with the Castello dell’Acciaiolo serving as the initiative's focal point.

Ferragosto Around Florence

For the August 15th holiday, we highlight three events: the traditional evening concert in the atmospheric, spacious grounds of the former San Salvi psychiatric hospital—located near the Andrea del Sarto *Cenacolo* (Last Supper) and museum; a picnic accompanied by a concert in the large meadow shaded by centuries-old fir trees at Vallombrosa; and finally, moving to the Mugello area, a fireworks display over Lake Bilancino.

In the Metropolitan Area

The Florence metropolitan area has much more to offer: from August 7 to 10, Borgo San Lorenzo hosts the Palio di San Lorenzo, featuring competitions and challenges between the town's districts at the Foro Boario, culminating in a soapbox cart race, tug-of-war, and a round-bale race. Marradi hosts the magical "Night of the Witches" (*Notte delle Streghe*) on August 22; set against a medieval-fantasy backdrop, the event commemorates the burning of the "Witch of the Lamone," who was said to haunt the area in ancient times. Meanwhile, on August 30, the MAF (Marradi Art Festival) will bring the town center to life from the morning onwards with roving bands, local street food, art exhibitions, and a dedicated children's area.

In Scarperia, the 52nd Cutting Tools Exhibition awaits, showcasing magnificent blades within the Palazzo dei Vicari; meanwhile, Vicchio hosts the return of the traditional *Fiera Calda* from August 27 to 30—a historic event featuring a livestock market, handicrafts, and local producers.

Against the evocative backdrop of the German War Cemetery at Futa Pass, performances by the Archivio Zeta troupe run until August 23, blending theater, memory, and landscape in a setting of profound emotional resonance as they stage the second and final part of Franz Kafka’s *The Trial*. Finally, in Empoli, the 12th Beat Festival brings music, entertainment, and a lively social atmosphere to the Prato della Serravalle park during the last weekend of August (featuring guests such as Edoardo Bennato, Sayf, K-POP IS COMING, and others).

The August Itinerary – The Water Trails

“The Water Trails” (*I Cammini dell’Acqua*) are an initiative by Publiacqua—the water utility provider for the greater Florence metropolitan area and beyond—designed to help people rediscover the beauty, nature, and history of local communities by following paths that trace the course of water: streams, brooks, aqueducts, check dams, fountains, ice houses, washhouses, weirs, bridges, mills, and wells.

The trails are all well-marked and vary in terms of duration, elevation gain, and difficulty. Discover the Water Trails—they are completely pet-friendly!