Night of the Witches
A night of magic, mystery, and fire in the village of Marradi
About Night of the Witches
The most magical night in the Upper Mugello
When darkness falls over the Apennine mountains, the village of Marradi, in the Province of Florence, transforms into a setting suspended between fairy tale and nightmare. The Night of the Witches has been one of the most anticipated summer events in the Upper Mugello for over twenty years: a grand popular festival that draws thousands of people into the alleys of the historic center, dominated for one night by darkness and mystery.
A parallel world in the village alleys
The entire town becomes an open-air stage. Along the streets and squares, you will encounter witches, clowns, mimes, stilt walkers, fire artists, and enigmatic characters who bring to life roaming performances and themed stations scattered throughout the village. Evocative set designs, light shows, and mysterious performances lead the audience on a journey of wonder and fascination, while shops remain open late into the night and the streets fill with color and music.
The burning of the witch on the Lamone
The most anticipated moment of the evening is the burning of the witch: after a final procession through the town, the event culminates at midnight on the banks of the Lamone river, where the witch is set ablaze amidst spectacular fireworks. It is an ancient, dramatic ritual that taps into popular imagination and brings the festival to a grand close, with the night sky illuminated by pyrotechnics.
For adults and children
The Night of the Witches is an event designed for the whole family. Alongside the evening shows, there is an area dedicated to children with workshops, themed games, face painting, and family-friendly entertainment. There are also traditional competitions involving the town: prizes for the best themed costume, the best-decorated shop or house, and a photography contest.
Flavors of the Apennines
The festival is also an opportunity to discover local gastronomy: food stalls offer specialties from the Apennine territory with bold flavors, featuring wild boar as the star of various dishes, accompanied by local wines. A key identity element that ties the event to the traditions of Marradi, a village also known for its PGI chestnuts and its mountain atmosphere.
A regional attraction
Organized by the Pro Loco Marradi with the support of the Municipality, the Night of the Witches has grown over time to become a major attraction that reaches beyond the borders of Tuscany, drawing thousands of visitors every year from nearby Romagna as well. A successful mix of folklore, live entertainment, and village celebration that makes Marradi the capital of magic for one night.
Night of the Witches — edition 2026
The 2026 Night of the Witches in Marradi is confirmed for Saturday, August 22. The historic center of the Upper Mugello village returns to transform into a parallel world dominated by night and mystery, with witches, stilt walkers, and fire artists enlivening the alleys and squares.
As per tradition, the evening concludes at midnight with the burning of the witch on the banks of the Lamone river and a fireworks display, following an evening of shows, food stalls, and children's entertainment.
The detailed program and the theme for the 2026 edition will be announced by the Pro Loco Marradi in the weeks leading up to the event, typically during the summer.
Programme Night of the Witches 2026
The detailed program for the 2026 edition will be published by the Pro Loco Marradi in the weeks leading up to the event.
Based on past editions, the evening usually follows this structure:
- Late afternoon — Opening of the market and children's activities
- Evening — Opening of food stalls with local specialties
- From approx. 8:30 PM — Street performances through the center: witches, stilt walkers, fire artists, mimes, and themed characters at various village stations
- Midnight — Final procession and burning of the witch on the banks of the Lamone river with fireworks
Traditional competitions are also planned for the best themed costume, the best-decorated shop or house, and a photography contest.
Highlights Night of the Witches 2026
- The burning of the witch on the Lamone river at midnight with fireworks
- Street performances with fire artists and stilt walkers throughout the historic center
- Children's area with workshops and themed entertainment
- Food stalls with Apennine specialties, featuring wild boar
Prices Night of the Witches 2026
Practical information — Night of the Witches
When
The Night of the Witches takes place on an evening in August in the historic center of Marradi. The 2026 edition is scheduled for Saturday, August 22.
Hours
Market opens in the late afternoon, food stalls from the evening; shows begin around 8:30 PM and continue until midnight, when the burning of the witch takes place on the Lamone river with fireworks.
How to get there
Marradi is located along the Faentina road and railway, between Florence and Faenza. By train, Marradi station is served by the Faentina line; by car, it can be reached via the SS302 Brisighellese-Ravennate. During the event evenings, shuttle services and dedicated parking are usually available on the outskirts of the town.
Admission
Access to the historic center during the festival usually requires a symbolic contribution (around 5 euros, with free entry for children); details and any tickets are communicated by the Pro Loco Marradi in the weeks leading up to the event.
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Where does it take place — Night of the Witches
Centro storico di Marradi