Every spring, Italians hold the Maggiolata festival to celebrate the abundance of flowers blooming everywhere in vibrant hues and captivating scents. This year, the 85th Edition of the event is set to take place on Sunday, May 19, Tuesday, May 21 (night), and Sunday, May 26. Held in the picturesque town of Lucignano, only 21 miles (34 km) from Florence, this cherished festival promises a delightful celebration of spring and community spirit. In addition to the concerts, shows, and other traditional performances, the special feature of the festival is the parade.
Parade
At the heart of the event lies the festival's crowning glory - a parade of allegorical wagons. These magnificent creations, adorned with a kaleidoscope of flowers, are lovingly crafted by the citizens of the four historic districts of Florence. Accompaniment by musical bands and folk groups from various corners of Italy and beyond adds an extra layer of charm and cultural significance. The streets of Lucignano come alive with the aroma and spectacle of floral compositions, casting a spell of enchantment over the medieval village.
Ticket Information
Ticket options for the Maggiolata festival suit various preferences. A 3-entry subscription allows access to three events of choice for €20. Single-entry tickets for Sunday are priced at €10, with discounts for children aged 10-14 at €7 and free admission for children under ten. Alternatively, Tuesday admission is offered at €8 per person. For groups looking to make the most of their visit, a special package priced at €30 includes admission along with lunch at the stand, ensuring a memorable and satisfying experience for all participants.
The Four Districts
The festival is further enriched by the participation of Lucignano's four districts, each with its own colors: black and white Porta San Giusto, yellow and green Porta San Giovanni, red and blue Walled Gate, and yellow and red Love Way. Each district brings a unique flair to the festivities, reflecting its lively spirit or symbolizing its strong community bonds and close relationship with architecture and culture. All compete joyfully for the title of the most beautiful float.
History and Setting
Maggiolata was inspired by another pagan celebration named Calendimaggio, which used to begin on May 1 and last for the whole month. However, nowadays, the celebration has been shortened to the last two weeks of May, which remains the most flower-rich month. Originally, the goal of the festivities was to greet spring's arrival through some pagan rituals, although the temples were also vividly adorned with flowers.
Nestled atop a gentle hill in the Val di Chiana, Lucignano captivates visitors with its medieval charm and picturesque landscapes. Its narrow, elliptical streets and vibrant colors create an enchanting backdrop for the festival, inviting attendees to immerse themselves in its timeless beauty.
