Marlia Spring Festival

A festival that puts children at the heart of the community

The Marlia Spring Festival is one of the most cherished traditions in this village, located in the municipality of Capannori, in the province of Lucca, in the heart of the Lucca Plain, Tuscany. Organized by the Rione Santa Caterina with the patronage of the Capannori municipality, the event is unique in the local landscape: the true stars are not guest performers, but the local school students, ranging from preschool to middle school age.

The covered market as a stage

For a few days, the Marlia covered market on Piazza del Mercato, along Via Paolinelli, changes its look to become an indoor theater. It hosts a rotation of concerts, plays, and festivities that bring together families, teachers, and the entire community. It is a way to give space back to children and teenagers, celebrating the work done throughout the school year and strengthening the bond between schools, local associations, and the town.

The schools that bring the festival to life

The stage features various local schools: the C. Collodi preschool and A. Manzoni primary school of Marlia, the Nottolini middle school of Lammari with its recorder orchestras and choirs, and the Giovanni Pascoli primary school of Saltocchio. Each class presents its own performance, blending music, singing, dance, and theater into a program that unfolds over several evenings and dedicated morning sessions.

The Poetry and Prose Review

The historical heart of the event is the Children's Poetry and Prose Review, which has reached numerous editions and has become a tradition within a tradition. This event celebrates the literary creativity of the youth and concludes the week of festivities, confirming the educational and cultural commitment of this initiative, which is deeply rooted in the Lucca Plain.