January is a wonderful time to experience Florence without the crowds, when the city's beauty shines against crisp winter skies. The holiday season officially concludes with the grand Cavalcata dei Magi parade on Epiphany, a spectacular tradition that fills the streets with pageantry. Throughout the month, Florence welcomes fashion lovers from around the world for Pitti Immagine Uomo, one of the most important events on the fashion calendar. And in the surrounding Tuscan countryside, ancient rivalries come to life with traditional bonfire competitions that light up the winter nights.
1 January 2025
Florence rings in the new year with a daring tradition as members of the Florence Rowing Club and other brave souls plunge into the chilly waters of the Arno River. The event, held near the Lungarno area, draws crowds who gather to cheer on the swimmers as they make their symbolic fresh start to the year. Whether you're watching or joining in, it's a unique and spirited way to experience New Year's Day in Florence.
Starting 5 January 2025
Florence's reputation for style and fashion makes the winter sales season an exciting time to visit. Starting in early January and running for several weeks, shops across the city—from designer boutiques to local artisans and major department stores—offer significant discounts. Whether you're searching for luxury fashion, handcrafted leather goods or stylish accessories, this is the perfect moment to take home something special and enjoy Florence's elegant shopping streets at their liveliest.
6 January 2025
If you are in Florence for the Epiphany, be sure not to miss the Cavalcata dei Magi (Procession of the Magi), a colorful procession that brings medieval pageantry to life. Starting at 2pm from Piazza Pitti, hundreds of performers dressed in elaborate costumes—along with horses, falconers and flag throwers—make their way through the historic streets to Piazza Duomo in a grand reenactment of the Three Wise Men's journey to Bethlehem.
6 January 2025
Beloved by children and tied to the Epiphany, La Befana is the legendary holiday figure who brings sweets and small gifts to well-behaved children. In Florence, the day begins with her festive arrival by boat at the Canottieri Comunali Boat Club at 10am, where she greets families, offers small gifts and holiday treats, and even gives short boat rides along the Arno. Throughout the day, she makes appearances across the city, bringing warmth and joy to the final day of the holiday season.
17 January 2025
The Feast of Saint Anthony Abate, the patron saint of animals and farmers, is celebrated throughout Tuscany with blessings of animals, festive processions and traditional bonfires. One of the most striking traditions takes place in Pontremoli, about two hours north of Florence in the Lunigiana region. Here, where the rival parishes of San Geminiano and San Niccolò compete in the Disfida dei Falò - an impressive bonfire contest on the riverbed. Towering structures of wood, sometimes reaching up to 30 meters high, are set ablaze amid singing, fireworks and community celebrations, with the height and brilliance of the flames deciding the winner.
14 - 17 January 2025
Florence's flair for fashion takes center stage each January with Pitti Immagine Uomo, one of the world's most important men's fashion events. Held at the historic Fortezza da Basso, the trade fair showcases over 800 high-end brands from Italy and around the world. Designers, buyers and fashion lovers gather to discover new collections, trends and innovations. While primarily a trade event, tickets can be purchased online in advance, offering visitors a chance to experience the energy and creativity of Florence's fashion scene.
26 January 2025
Each year, Florence honors its first bishop, San Zanobi (Saint Zenobius), with a traditional floral ceremony in Piazza San Giovanni. According to legend, a dead tree blossomed after being touched by the saint's relics - a miracle commemorated with this event. City officials and participants in historic costumes place wreaths of flowers at the Column of San Zanobi, just outside the Baptistery, while local choirs and processions fill the square with a sense of solemn beauty and tradition.
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