The Rificolona is one of the most typically Florentine traditions, irreverent but rooted in a religious festival. In fact, from time immemorial, on the evening of September 7, the eve of the nativity of Mary, mother of Jesus, Florence celebrates the feast of the Rificolona, so popular among the city's children who carry aloft, on a reed, their colorful "rificolona", or paper lantern.
The origins of this curious tradition, which is particularly felt in the city, are very interesting. Although the calendar of the many side events changes every year, a staple always remains the big parade in Piazza Santissima Annunziata from 9 p.m.; other parades and rificolona-building workshops take place in the city's other neighborhoods.
This year on the evening itself, the MAF (Archaeological Museum of Florence, which overlooks Piazza Santissima Annunziata), will also be involved in numerous activities: it will remain open, with free guided tours, until 10 p.m. and will exceptionally open the "secret corridor", a suspended link between the Crocetta Palace and the Basilica.
For various activities in the city, including in the suburbs, see the general event tab.
