Florence Carnival 2025: program and events

The Florence Carnival at Palazzo Vecchio is an event that has always embodied the spirit of this city, rich in history, tradition and charm.

The 2025 edition promises to be an explosion of joy and fun, with a program full of events and entertainment of the highest caliber.

On February 8, 2025, the heart of Florence will beat in unison with the festive rhythm of Carnival, offering participants an unforgettable experience.

The evening will open with the “Queens at the Palace” Grand Ball, an elegant and sophisticated celebration of the city's history and style, which will take place in the majestic Salone dei Cinquecento.

Welcoming guests will be commedia dell'arte actors and court jesters, who will lead participants through a cocktail reception, officially kicking off the masquerade evening. Afterwards, guests will be able to immerse themselves in a gala dinner inspired by the private balls of the early 20th century and the lavish receptions of the Medici family, under the guidance of a master of ceremonies who will introduce guests and characters from history in the beautifully decorated Salone.

During the evening, a performance designed and directed by Antonia Sautter, with the theme of Leonardo da Vinci's “Dream of Flying,” will be offered in collaboration with the historic Venice Carnival. This exciting performance promises to transport participants into a magical and dreamy atmosphere, making the event even more memorable.

The fun and celebration of the Florentine Carnival continues on February 9 with a large and exciting parade that will enliven the city's Historic Center.

From the early hours of the afternoon, Florence will be dressed to the nines, with its alleys and squares filling with color, music and merriment.

The event will kick off at 2 p.m. in Piazza Santa Maria Novella, with the highly anticipated opening event entitled “Waiting for Carnival,” organized in collaboration with Lady Radio, one of the leading radio stations in the area.

Here, the public will enjoy performances by street artists, traditional dances and entertainment shows, creating an atmosphere of pure euphoria and fun.

At 3:30 p.m., the majestic carnival procession, preceded by a parade of floats and masked groups, will begin to wind its way through the main streets of downtown Florence, finally reaching Piazza della Signoria, the beating heart of the city. Leading the jubilant crowd of participants will be Stenterello, the iconic mask of the Florentine Carnival, famous for his lively character, irresistible verve and hilarious chatter, who will entertain the audience with his hilarious gags.

But it will not only be a riot of color, music and merriment, as the organizers have also planned a dash of healthy competition to further enliven the day's atmosphere. In fact, prestigious awards will be given to the best disguises, with the Grand Jury decreeing the winner of the Stenterello 2025 Award, one of the most coveted and coveted categories for participants, who will be able to demonstrate their skills in interpreting and reworking the mask that is the symbol of the Florentine Carnival.

All along the route, visitors will be able to immerse themselves in an atmosphere of festivity and conviviality, enjoying delicious typical Carnival sweets, such as fragrant castagnole and fried desserts, and participating in games and activities organized for the occasion.

The Carnival of Florence will continue to entertain its visitors with a series of unmissable events and appointments.

One of the highlights is the Carnival in Piazza Ognissanti, scheduled for Saturday, March 1, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

This colorful and lively celebration will involve young and old in an atmosphere of joy and happiness, full of entertainment and typical Florentine carnival delicacies. Overwhelming music will set the mood, while games and interactive activities will stimulate the imagination and fun of all participants.

The FH55 Grand Hotel Mediterraneo in Florence is the ideal option for spending the 2 days of Carnival in comfort.

Strategically located, the hotel with parking offers spacious and refined rooms that guarantee relaxation and well-being.

The property boasts a high-level gastronomic offer, with the Arno Restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine and the “Lounge Bar” serving international dishes and cocktails, also open to non-hotel residents.

For a stay in the heart of the historic center, we suggest FH55 Hotel Calzauioli, on Via dei Calzaiuoli, just a few meters from Palazzo Vecchio and Piazza Duomo.