Featured Events in Florence in December, 2024 (May Updated)

Starting with the Saracen jousting, a popular event celebrated in the city of Arezzo, the exhibition aims to document war games using prints and drawings from various periods in the Uffizi Gallery, especially the numerous examples of helmets, weapons and armour from the famous collection of the Stibbert Museum. These knightly tournaments became popular in the Middle Ages and continued into the Renaissance, including the Crossbow Palio, which required contestants to have skills in precision, and the ancient Game of the Bridge, a contest of strength to conquer the Ponte Vecchio on foot. Visitors will see the most iconic piece in the exhibition, a 16th-century Buratto or Saracen quintain on loan from the Museo Nazionale del Bargello. Probably a celebration to mark the marriage of Francesco I and Bianca Cappero in 1579, the changes over the centuries have transformed it from a Saracen nobleman to the European warrior we see today. The exhibition emblem is another prestigious work of art, Stefano Della Bella’s Knight in Armour, made for the procession and loaned by the Uffizi Gallery. The sumptuous, ornate costumes and robes evoke the sheer splendor of participating in these spectacular events designed to celebrate the great and the good. In another painting loaned from the CR Florence Foundation, Stefano Della Bella depicts a night procession in the Boboli Gardens in 1637. Arms and armour are loaned by Florence’s Museo Stibbert, which has one of the richest collections of material on the ancient game of bridge in Pisa. Stibbert also loaned a fine set of 17th-century crossbows richly inlaid with hunting scenes, made by a workshop in southern Germany. And the collection of the Ivan Bruschi Foundation lends an interesting letter of challenge from “the unconquered, most glorious and ever-victorious King of the Indies, Brato”, issued to announce the version of the Saracen tournament that was held on August 26, 1674 in honor of Cardinal Corsini, Bishop of Arezzo.

Valter Bernardeschi’s photographs are vibrant testimonies of natural life, captured with a rare sensitivity and impeccable technique. Each image tells a story, revealing the majesty and vulnerability of nature in all its complexity.

Welcome to the Florence International Dance Festival! Come join us at the Teatro Verdi for a spectacular showcase of talent from around the world. Get ready to be mesmerized by breathtaking performances that will leave you in awe. This event is a celebration of diversity, culture, and the art of dance. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to witness some of the best dancers in the world right here in Florence, Italy. Mark your calendars and get ready to be dazzled! Information Source: Larissa Dizz | eventbrite

Inaugurated in 1983 in Palazzo Pitti - already famous for being the fashion "temple" of the post-war period - the museum is the first Italian national museum dedicated to the history of fashion, haute couture, the evolution of tastes over the centuries. The new arrangement of the museum offers visitors a selection of rare and precious dresses accompanied by accessories, shoes, hats, fans, parasols, bags, which present through suggestions and samples a vast collection, with a total of more than 15,000 objects, which will be presented over time according to a rotation grouped by type, theme and leitmotif, while always maintaining the standards of the new arrangement, which aims to propose a journey of the evolution of fashion and taste that can be seen in the historical development from the 18th century to the present day. Another characteristic element of the new arrangement is indeed the interaction between dresses and accessories and the most diverse art forms, strongly recommended by curator Simone Verde and museum director Vanessa Gavioli, first of all painting, by comparing the magnificent dresses on display with some fascinating portraits and paintings of the same period, which also helps to make fashion through the representation of painters such as Carle Vanloo, Laurent Pecheux and Jean-Sébastien Rouillard, through elegant portraits of 19th-century artists such as Tito Conti, Giovanni Boldini, Edoardo Gelli and Vittorio Corcos, to get to know some of the most relevant artists of the Italian avant-garde, including Massimo Campigli, Giulio Turcato, Corrado Cagli and Alberto Burri. After all, fashion is by definition an art that has always been in symbiosis with the most diverse disciplines, and the new arrangement of the museum aims to recreate an ideal palimpsest where one can also capture at a glance the relationship between the different arts. Thus, not only between fashion and painting, but also between fashion and plastic arts (the pairing between the handle of a porcelain vase and the sleeve of an 18th-century dress is an interesting one); fashion, theatre and sculpture (the relationship between the Mariano Fortuny dress worn by Eleonora Duse and the face of an actress sculpted by Arrigo Minerbi is a particularly fascinating example); but also between fashion and architecture, the dress closely related to the surrounding historical space, the furniture and the frescoes of the Palazzina della Meridiana; and finally ending with a visual dialogue, thanks to the use of video screens, a virtual reconstruction between the current arrangement and the historical one, from those years in Florence, in the Pitti Palace, in those rooms that we can visit again today, when Italian haute couture was establishing itself internationally as one of the most famous and acclaimed in the world of excellence, according to a tradition that still continues seamlessly to this day.

"Carlo Maria Mariani. Arte beyond time" is the title of the exhibition hosted in the Andito degli Angiolini in Palazzo Pitti untill the 1st of December 2024. The exhibition consists of sixteen works by the Italian painter and internationally recognized contemporary master, who passed away in 2021 at the age of 90 in New York, and is curated by Clayton Calvert, executive director of The Carlo Maria Mariani and Carol Lane Mariani Foundation of New York and the art critic Vittorio Sgarbi. The exhibition covers a time span of over 50 years of the artist's production from 1968 to 2019 and includes contributions from the Foundation that bears his name, from the MART of Trento and Rovereto, from the Achille Forti Modern Art Gallery Collection of Verona, from Museo del Novecento in Milan and from the Antonio Martino Collection in Rome.

Terre degli Uffizi returns to San Casciano with an exhibition exploring, for the first time, the work of macchiaiolo Stanislao Pointeau. A tribute to Prof. Carlo Del Bravo Terre degli Uffizi returns to San Casciano with a monographic exhibition devoted, for the very first time, to the Franco-Florentine painter Stanislao Pointeau and to the role he played in the birth and development of the Macchiaolo style in Florence and in Tuscany. The exhibition at the Museo Giuliano Ghelli, due to run from 26 October to 16 February, is entitled “Stanislao Pointeau – A Tuscan Macchiaiolo of French Descent”. The exhibition is curated by Michele Amedei and organised by the Comune di San Casciano in Val di Pesa as part of the Fondazione CR Firenze and Gallerie degli Uffizi exhibition programme, in the context of their respective Piccoli Grandi Musei and Uffizi Diffusi schemes. After the exhibition devoted to Jacopo Vignali, this is once again a tribute to Carlo del Bravo, the diligent art historian from San Casciano whose research in the late 1970s led to Stanislao Pointeau’s rediscovery.

Design your own fused festive glass ornaments with artist, Steph Sykes! Steph will lead you in the process of cutting cutting and breaking glass safely. From there you'll be able to use different forms of glass to create patterns, textures and images After you’ve made your ornament, Steph will take the creations away for firing and arrange drop off/collections at a later date before Christmas. Your ticket price includes all materials and coffee and traybakes on arrival. Your ticket price includes all materials and coffee and traybakes on arrival. The workshop is based in our Garden Studio, which opens onto our beautiful wildlife garden. Take time after the workshop to relax and explore the arts centre and wildlife garden, learn about the Florence Mine site and enjoy our Fair-trade coffee and teas. Suitable for all ages but children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. You'll need reasonable mobility in your hands. Please contact us if you have any additional access needs. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet. Information Source: Florence Arts Centre | eventbrite

Join Nikki and Dave in the paintmaking studio at florence arts centre. The Arts centre is on the site of the former iron ore (haematite) mine. Learn more about how we process the iron ore to create our signature egremont red colour in this demonstration. There will be opportunity to have a go yourself and of course ask questions. Friendly and warm atmosphere - a lovely interesting way to spend an afternoon. Information Source: Florence Arts Centre | eventbrite

The workshop, led by experienced workshop leader and published, prize-winning writer, Karen Rollason, aims to take you beyond the blank page to explore the 12 Days of Christmas through writing. In this workshop a variety of writing prompts will be used to inspire new writing. Using objects, photos and memories, attendees will be guided through a creative process and choose whether to write Poetry, Prose or Flash. They will plan and create 12 pieces of writing that can be used in their Christmas Celebrations. Your ticket price includes all materials and coffee and traybakes on arrival. Your ticket price includes all materials and coffee and traybakes on arrival. The workshop is based outdoors and in our Garden Studio, which opens onto our beautiful wildlife garden. Take time after the workshop to relax and explore the arts centre and wildlife garden, learn about the Florence Mine site and enjoy our Fair-trade coffee and teas. The workshop is based outdoors and in our Garden Studio, which opens onto our beautiful wildlife garden. Take time after the workshop to relax and explore the arts centre and wildlife garden, learn about the Florence Mine site and enjoy our Fair-trade coffee and teas. Suitable for those 18+ with a fair grasp of the English language and reasonable mobility in your hands. You'll need reasonable mobility in your hands. Please contact us if you have any additional access needs. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet. We have an Access toilet. Information Source: Florence Arts Centre | eventbrite

Come along to meet members of Flo's friendly local artist network and practice drawing from our life model. We'll welcome you with hot drinks and biscuits to help the inspiration flow! The session will not be tutored so you will need to work independently and bring your own materials (including boards/easels if required). Come along from 6:15 to get settled in. We do not want the fee to be a barrier to taking part. Please get in touch if you'd like to discuss before booking. You'll need reasonable mobility in your hands. Please contact us if you have any additional access needs. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet. Information Source: Florence Arts Centre | eventbrite

Avery Delite's Burlesque revue returns to the Rustic Hut for a special holiday extravaganza! This is a 21+ only event! Doors: 6pm Show Time: 7pm All Sales are Final. No Refunds! Information Source: BFK Productions | eventbrite

Learn how turn your garden cuttings into festive baubles in this workshop with Wendy Stanger. Wendy will lead you in the process of incorporating real dried flowers into plant fibre and plant fibre into paper. With the papers you craft, you'll then be able to mould your baubles! Your ticket price includes all materials and coffee and traybakes on arrival. Your ticket price includes all materials and coffee and traybakes on arrival. The workshop is based in our Garden Studio, which opens onto our beautiful wildlife garden. Take time after the workshop to relax and explore the arts centre and wildlife garden, learn about the Florence Mine site and enjoy our Fair-trade coffee and teas. Suitable for all ages but children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. You'll need reasonable mobility in your hands. Please contact us if you have any additional access needs. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet. Information Source: Florence Arts Centre | eventbrite

This session will enable partcipants to select and prepare materials ready to create a festive decoration. All materials will be provided but your own favourite fabrics are welcome too. A unique Christmas decoration will be taken home as well as the skills and inspiration to create garlands for other celebrations. Jenni Payne has lived and worked in West Cumbria for many years and has enjoyed making things by hand for as long as she can remember. She is a member of the Fabricate group of local textile artists and has gained inspiration and support from them. Sharing know how of various craft techniques with people of all ages brings great joy to her. Your ticket price includes all materials and coffee and traybakes on arrival. Your ticket price includes all materials and coffee and traybakes on arrival. The workshop is based in our Garden Studio, which opens onto our beautiful wildlife garden. Take time after the workshop to relax and explore the arts centre and wildlife garden, learn about the Florence Mine site and enjoy our Fair-trade coffee and teas. Suitable for all ages but children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. You'll need reasonable mobility in your hands. Please contact us if you have any additional access needs. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet. Information Source: Florence Arts Centre | eventbrite

Take some time to get away from phones and iPads and come together as families for some quality quiet time listening to traditional folk tales on a winter theme. Bring a blanket and snuggle up together for some cosy interactive winter stories! Interactive stories will engage younger children with actions, sound effects and repetition, and then families will be provided with a storyboard sheet to help them make up their own story. This session takes place between 11:30 - 12:15. Best suited for families with children ages 3 to 8. Please contact us if you have any additional access needs. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet. Information Source: Florence Arts Centre | eventbrite

Take some time to get away from phones and iPads and come together as families for some quality quiet time listening to traditional folk tales on a winter theme. Bring a blanket and snuggle up together for some cosy interactive winter stories! Interactive stories will engage younger children with actions, sound effects and repetition, and then families will be provided with a storyboard sheet to help them make up their own story. This session takes place between 11:30 - 12:15. Best suited for families with children ages 3 to 8. Please contact us if you have any additional access needs. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet. Information Source: Florence Arts Centre | eventbrite

Welcome to the Florence International Dance Festival! Come join us at the Teatro Verdi for a spectacular showcase of talent from around the world. Get ready to be mesmerized by breathtaking performances that will leave you in awe. This event is a celebration of diversity, culture, and the art of dance. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to witness some of the best dancers in the world right here in Florence, Italy. Mark your calendars and get ready to be dazzled! Information Source: Larissa Dizz | eventbrite

Ever wanted to try your hand at using pastels but didn't know where to start? This workshop will be perfect for you. Experience the joys of using pastels to make a cosy Cumbrian winter scene with Unison Soft Colour Associate Pastel Artist, Emma Hunt. Emma will guide you through a typical Cumbrian winter scene and discover basic techniques that will include blending, and achieving realistic water and skies. After the workshop, you'll be able to take home your lovely art piece. Emma Hunt is a local established pastel artist from Egremont. She teaches privately and volunteers in the community to help children and adults for mental health, wellbeing and public speaking. Her techniques are simple and very effective. Your ticket price includes all materials and coffee and traybakes on arrival. The workshop is based in our Garden Studio, which opens onto our beautiful wildlife garden. Take time after the workshop to relax and explore the arts centre and wildlife garden, learn about the Florence Mine site and enjoy our Fair-trade coffee and teas. Suitable for those 9 and up. You'll need reasonable mobility in your hands. Please contact us if you have any additional access needs. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet. We have an Access toilet. Information Source: Florence Arts Centre | eventbrite

That Girl Lay Lay Meet&Greet Come hang out with the amazing That Girl Lay Lay at her Meet&Greet event! Get a chance to meet the talented artist in person, take selfies, and maybe even get an autograph! The event will be held at Freestyle Dance Studio, so make sure to mark your calendars. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to meet That Girl Lay Lay! Information Source: eventbrite

Designed for players seeking an intensive, focused, and dynamic experience, our camp offers a condensed, power-packed training session that leaves no skill unrefined. Each player will delve deep into skating techniques, advanced puck-handling drills, precision shooting, and tactical strategies. The smaller group size ensures personalized attention, allowing us to fine-tune your abilities and unlock your full potential! Schedule 7am Drop off 7:30am-9:00am On Ice 9:00am-10:30am Team Building 10:30am -11:00am Snack Break 11:30am-1:00pm On Ice 1:00pm - 1:30pm Lunch 1:30-3:00pm Dryland Fitness / Fun and Games 3:00pm Dismissal Apply today, limited spots available! Information Source: Future Pro Hockey | eventbrite

Ring in the New Year in style at the highly anticipated event, "New Year’s Eve with The Velcro Pygmies!!!!" taking place in Florence. The venue, located at 1816 Darby Drive, Florence, AL, USA, will host this unforgettable celebration on December 31, 2024. Join The Velcro Pygmies for an electrifying performance and dance the night away to their thrilling music. Tickets are priced at $20, offering fantastic value for a night of live entertainment. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to start the New Year with a bang!