Florence is preparing to experience once again the magic of the Festa della Rificolona, the event that every year, on the eve of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, brings back to the city the colors, lights, and warmth of a tradition that has its roots in the 17th century. The festival will kick off on September 7 with the traditional procession: pilgrims, who will set off in the afternoon from the Sanctuary of Impruneta, will reach Florence to join the city gathering at 7:00 p.m. in Piazza Santa Felicita. From there, the procession will cross the city center—Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, and Piazza Duomo—to finally arrive in Piazza Santissima Annunziata, where the festival will begin at 9:30 p.m. with the blessing of the lanterns. Starting at 8:30 p.m., there will be games and entertainment for children in the square. There will be an award ceremony for the most beautiful and artisanal Rificolona lantern, as well as a concert by Tommaso Imperiali & Five Quarters, with a repertoire that blends Florentine tradition with rock and Italian song. The Basilica della Santissima Annunziata will remain open until the end of the evening.
