The Florentine New Year, celebrated every year on 25 March, is one of the city’s most fascinating and deeply rooted traditions. Officially recognized by the Municipality of Florence, this date dates back to the Middle Ages, when 25 March marked the beginning of the civil year.
This choice was not accidental: it coincided with the Feast of the Annunciation, celebrated by the Church nine months before the birth of Jesus. Even after the introduction of the Gregorian calendar in 1582, which established 1 January as New Year’s Day, Florence stubbornly continued to consider 25 March as the start of the year. Only in 1749, by decree of Grand Duke Francis III of Lorraine, did the city finally align itself with the new calendar.
The historical procession and the Basilica of Santissima Annunziata
Even today, the Florentine New Year is commemorated with a evocative historical procession that departs from the Palagio di Parte Guelfa and winds its way through the city center to the Basilica of Santissima Annunziata. This route recalls the ancient pilgrimage of people from the surrounding countryside who came to Florence to pay homage to the sacred image of the Virgin Mary.
One of the most beloved Florentine legends is linked to this image. It is said that in 1252 the Servite friars, founders of the Basilica, entrusted Brother Bartolomeo with the task of painting the fresco of the Glorious Virgin. Unable to complete the Virgin’s face, the friar fell into a deep creative crisis. According to tradition, one night he fell asleep exhausted and, upon waking, discovered that the Virgin’s face had been miraculously completed by angels.
Since then, the image has been considered miraculous and remains a destination of devotion, particularly for newlyweds, who visit the Basilica to leave a bouquet of flowers and ask for a blessing on their union.
A special experience at Antica Torre Tornabuoni
On the occasion of the Florentine New Year 2026, Antica Torre Tornabuoni celebrates this tradition with a curated experience designed to immerse guests in the history, music, and flavors of Tuscany.
The afternoon begins with a guided tour of the symbolic places associated with the Florentine New Year—an immersive cultural itinerary that allows guests to rediscover Florence through its most authentic roots. This is followed by an emotional concert of traditional Tuscan folk songs, performed by the children’s choir Vivi La Voce di Firenze, filling the atmosphere with memory and collective emotion.
The evening continues with a convivial apericena dedicated to local products: a true homage to Tuscan cuisine and Florentine street food. Selected cured meats and cheeses, along with traditional dishes such as tripe, chicken liver crostini, ribollita, and pappa al pomodoro, accompanied by bread and baked specialties, create a rich and authentic gastronomic journey.
Practical information
The experience costs €80 per person, while children aged 0 to 12 may participate free of charge. Places are limited in order to ensure an intimate and carefully curated atmosphere, in keeping with the spirit of Antica Torre Tornabuoni.
The Florentine New Year is not merely a date on the calendar, but a living story made of history, faith, music, and flavors. A unique opportunity to experience Florence like a true Florentine, rediscovering the slower rhythm of tradition and the beauty of gestures that have endured through the centuries.