Lanterns Light Up Florence: The Rificolona Returns on September 7

On the evening of September 7, 2025, Florence will once again be illuminated by the soft, colorful glow of thousands of paper lanterns as the city celebrates the Festa della Rificolona. This popular tradition, deeply rooted in Florentine culture, takes place every year on the eve of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary.

The festival has origins in the 17th century, when pilgrims from the Tuscan countryside would walk into Florence, often overnight, carrying lanterns to light their path toward the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata. They came to honor the Virgin, bringing farm products and handmade goods to sell in the city. Over time, the devotional pilgrimage merged with a lively urban festivity, where children paraded through the streets with lanterns—some beautifully crafted, others improvised from paper and reeds. The name rificolona itself refers both to the lanterns and, somewhat humorously, to the rustic women who once came to Florence for the occasion.

This year, the celebrations will begin in the afternoon, when pilgrims depart from the Sanctuary of Impruneta and walk toward Florence. At 7:00 p.m., the traditional city gathering will start in Piazza Santa Felicita. From there, the procession will cross Ponte Vecchio, continue through Piazza della Signoria and Piazza Duomo, and finally arrive in Piazza Santissima Annunziata. At 9:30 p.m., the official opening will take place with greetings from local authorities and the blessing of the lanterns.

The evening will feature family-friendly entertainment. Starting at 8:30 p.m., Veronica Bellandi Bulgari will lead games for children. Later, the Premio Graziano Grazzini will award the most beautiful handcrafted lantern. The night will continue with a concert by Tommaso Imperiali & Five Quarters, making their Tuscan debut with a performance that blends Florentine tradition, rock, and Italian song. The Basilica della Santissima Annunziata will remain open late, offering a spiritual dimension to the celebration.

Thanks to the hospitality of the Istituto degli Innocenti, the support of Radio Toscana, and the participation of ACF Fiorentina—who will present the award winner with a shirt and ball signed by Moise Kean—the event promises to be both festive and meaningful.

The Festa della Rificolona is more than just a picturesque parade. It is a living tradition that connects Florence with its history, faith, and sense of community. For residents and visitors alike, it is one of the city’s most evocative celebrations: a night when music, devotion, and thousands of glowing lanterns transform Florence into a stage of light.

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