One of the most important events in Florence: celebrations to honour the patron saint
This is a not-to-be-missed celebration, involving sport and a concert followed by stunning fireworks over the city.
The entire city is involved in the celebrations, which start in the morning with a Roman Catholic holy mass at the Duomo (10.30am), to go on with a parade, while in Santa Croce the final match of the Calcio Storico takes place for those who bought the ticket. The day ends for everyone while watching the fireworks from panoramic spots.
About the Fochi di San Giovanni
Following a well-established tradition, the most awaited event is the traditional ‘Fochi’, the Florentine word for fireworks (Fuochi d’artificio, in Italian). On this very occasion, locals and tourists alike are all invited to join in the celebrations and admire the fireworks, that start with a traditional concert held in Lungarno della Zecca Vecchia and performed by the Orchestra dei Ragazzi della Scuola di Musica di Fiesole, a local group of young musicians.
Soon after the concert, they light the ‘Fochi’ up for a real fireworks rain, lighting the city from Piazzale Michelangelo, usually starting from 10pm.
This event is free
Address: Concert at Lungarno della Zecca Vecchia
Fochi at Piazzale Michelangelo
The concert usually starts at 8.30pm, fochi are thrown from 10pm.
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