Misericordia Festival of Calenzano

A village festival rooted in tradition

The Misericordia Festival of Calenzano is one of the most cherished summer events in the municipality of Calenzano, located in the province of Florence, in the heart of the Florentine plain connecting the Tuscan capital to Prato. Organized by the Misericordia Confraternity of Calenzano, the event takes place every year between June and July in Piazza del Ghirlandaio and along Via Brunelleschi, turning the town center into a vibrant meeting place for the entire community.

Described by the organizers as "a festival the old-fashioned way," it preserves the authentic spirit of traditional Tuscan village fairs: people gathering outdoors in the evening, convivial dining, live music, and a strong sense of solidarity. The Misericordia is, in fact, one of Italy's oldest volunteer institutions, and the proceeds from the festival support its local community services.

Shows, music, and gastronomy

The beating heart of the festival is the stage set up in the square, where every evening features live orchestras, performances by local dance schools, fashion shows, and cabaret nights. It is the classic program of ballroom dancing and popular entertainment that gets everyone, young and old, dancing under the Tuscan summer stars.

Gastronomy is also a highlight of the event: every evening, a bar, restaurant, and pizzeria are open, serving traditional local dishes at affordable prices. It is the perfect opportunity to enjoy dinner with friends before watching the stage performances.

Tournaments, walks, and the Trofeo Misericordia

Alongside the evening events, the calendar offers numerous daytime and side activities. These include charity card tournaments, guided walks to discover the area, and the "Empty the Cellar - A Day as a Second-hand Dealer" event, a flea market where participants use their car trunks as sales stalls.

The highlight of the sporting events is the Trofeo Misericordia, a footrace reaching its twentieth edition in 2026, organized by Atletica Calenzano with the support of the Misericordia. The competitive 8.8 km route winds through the picturesque Parco di Travalle, featuring the iconic crossing of the Marinella stream on the historic stone bridge. There are also routes dedicated to walkers and amateurs to involve athletes of all levels.

An event for the whole community

With its mix of music, good food, sports, and tradition, the Misericordia Festival of Calenzano is much more than just a summer event: it is a gathering that strengthens community ties and keeps the memory of one of the territory's most beloved institutions alive. With free admission, it is perfect for those who want to experience the genuine atmosphere of a Tuscan village festival, just minutes from Florence and Prato.