June 24 marks the feast day of St. John (San Giovanni), patron saint of Florence.
As every year, this day is characterized by a series of events involving the entire city and tourists.
The feast of the patron saint is an unmissable opportunity to experience the authentic spirit of Florence, including its history, culture, and festivities.
Anyone lucky enough to participate in this event will be enchanted by the beauty of the city and its rich tradition.
The highlight of the feast of St. John is undoubtedly the fireworks display, known as “I Fochi di San Giovanni,” which can be admired during dinner at the Serrae Villa Fiesole restaurant with its panoramic view of Florence.
The celebrations of San Giovanni in Florence
Throughout the day, numerous activities and events celebrate Florentine tradition, such as the offering of candles and the historical costume parade.
The celebrations begin early in the morning, when the streets come alive with historical parades in Renaissance costumes.
These parades represent a sort of journey through time, taking us back to the era of the Florentine Republic.
The participants in the parades are dressed in period costumes, reminiscent of the city’s splendor and glory.
The feast of St. John continues with a solemn mass in the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.
The candle ceremony, a tradition dating back to the 13th century and linked to the legend of the transfer of the relics of St. John the Baptist to the Basilica of Santa Maria del Fiore, involves the lighting of three large 8-meter-high candles representing faith, hope, and charity.
The candles are carried in procession through the streets of the historic center by groups of candle bearers dressed in historical costumes.
The fireworks of San Giovanni and the final of Historic Florentine Football
This celebration, which has ancient roots in the city’s history, is a moment of great importance for the Florentine community and for tourists visiting Florence.
The show takes place in the evening, along the banks of the Arno River and at panoramic viewpoints throughout the city.
Thousands of people gather to watch this breathtaking spectacle, which lights up the night sky of Florence with a magnificent variety of colors and shapes.
In addition to the fireworks display, the Feast of St. John also includes the final of Historic Florentine Football, an ancient game that combines soccer, rugby, and wrestling.
This game is played in Piazza Santa Croce and attracts numerous fans, who gather to watch the challenges between the city’s neighborhoods.
Where to watch the San Giovanni fireworks display
If you are looking for a restaurant to watch the fireworks on the Feast of St. John, Serrae Villa Fiesole, with its stunning panoramic view, is the perfect choice.
This unique spectacle attracts thousands of people from all over the world every year, offering an unforgettable experience.
Thanks to the restaurant’s privileged location, you can enjoy a magnificent view of Florence and its surroundings, stretching as far as the surrounding hills.
The atmosphere is magical and evocative, with the colors of the fireworks reflecting on the waters of the Arno and lighting up the night sky.
There is nothing more romantic and evocative than spending an unforgettable evening at the Serrae Villa Fiesole restaurant, admiring the spectacle of the San Giovanni fireworks and appreciating the beauty of life.
For the occasion, you can dine on the outdoor panoramic terrace with a choice of three tasting menus, with 5, 7, or 9 courses, paired with the finest wines.
Take advantage of this opportunity to book a table with a view at our Serrae Villa Fiesole restaurant, with its Michelin-starred chef Antonello Sardi.