Easter traditions and best things to do in Florence at Easter

On the Fourth of July, Americans light fireworks to celebrate the day of independence from Britain which dates to 1776. A Florentine tradition called Scoppio del Carro, also known as the Explosion of the Cart, dates to the First Crusade. It occurs every year outside of the famous Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore on Easter Sunday. This year, the Scoppio del Carro will take place on April 20, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.

This ritual of vibrant colors and fireworks is practiced in honor of the Crusaders’ victory in liberating Jerusalem. According to legend, Florentine Pazzino di Ranieri de’ Pazzi was the first to climb the walls of the Holy City and place the Christian flag. Godfrey IV de Bouillon rewarded Pazzino for his bravery with three pieces of stone from the Holy Sepulcher of Christ. On Easter, the Pazzi family used these stones to light a sacred fire, symbolizing rebirth. Today, that tradition lives on as the Scoppio del Carro—though the fire has been replaced with spectacular fireworks.

But Easter in Florence is not just about sparks flying.

Religious and Cultural Events

Besides the explosion of the cart, Easter offers many other ways to experience Florence’s rich traditions:

Attend an Easter Mass at the Duomo or Santa Croce for an unforgettable spiritual and cultural experience.
Enjoy classical and sacred music concerts held in historic churches like San Miniato al Monte or Santo Spirito during Holy Week.
Visit temporary art exhibitions at museums such as the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Strozzi, or Museo Novecento, many of which have special openings around Easter.

Taste of Florence: Chocolate, Colomba & More

Easter is the perfect time to indulge your sweet tooth. Local pasticcerie (bakeries) like Rivoire, Dolci & Dolcezze, and Pasticceria Nencioni are famous for their handmade chocolate eggs and Colomba, a dove-shaped cake filled with candied fruit and topped with almonds and icing.

Pair these treats with a glass of Vinsanto, a traditional Tuscan sweet wine, or enjoy a festive meal with seasonal dishes like:

Crescia di Pasqua (savory Easter cheese bread)
Roast lamb with rosemary potatoes
Frittata di erbe (herb omelet)

Easter Monday (Pasquetta) in Florence

Easter doesn’t end on Sunday. Pasquetta, or Easter Monday, is a day for relaxing with friends and family.

Here are some ideas to make the most of it:

Have a picnic at the Giardino delle Rose, Le Cascine Park, or the Giardino dell’Orticoltura.
Take a day trip to the countryside: explore the hills of Chianti, visit San Gimignano, or go hiking in Vallombrosa.
For a panoramic view of the city, walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo, and then continue to San Miniato al Monte—a peaceful spot perfect for reflection and photos.

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Easter Activities for Families

If you’re traveling with children, look out for:

Easter egg hunts and spring-themed events often held in public gardens or museums.
Creative workshops for kids where they can decorate eggs or learn how to make traditional Tuscan sweets.

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Unique tours and experiences in Florence and Tuscany