Winter in Tuscany is often imagined as quiet, peaceful and slow—but January and early February tell a different story. Our clients who visit after the Christmas period are often surprised to learn of the events, small-town rituals, and centuries-old traditions that keep the magic alive long after the Christmas celebrations.
It is for this reasons that this is another great time to experience local culture without the crowds. Villages open their doors for community feasts, processions honour their patron saints, and historic centres fill with seasonal treats and celebrations that most visitors never get to see.
Because many events take place in rural towns with limited transit connections, we strongly recommend booking a private driver. Roads can be narrow, buses infrequent, and evening events difficult to navigate without local support. With a driver, you’ll be able to move comfortably between towns and truly enjoy the atmosphere.
Below is your guide to the best post-Christmas festivals and winter traditions in Tuscany for 2026.
Epiphany & La Befana Celebrations — Florence and Surrounding Towns (6 January)
Across Italy, the Epiphany marks the official end of the Christmas season, and Tuscany honours it in some of its most charming towns. Florence hosts the spectacular Cavalcata dei Magi, a grand historical parade revived from the Renaissance, complete with flag-throwers, musicians and people in elaborate costumes.
Meanwhile, villages in the countryside celebrate the Epiphany with local Befana events, small markets, children’s activities, and outdoor performances.
What makes this special is how deeply integrated these celebrations are in local life. Families fill the squares, churches ring out in ceremony and children wait eagerly for La Befana to arrive.
How to Get There
Best base: Florence
Transport: Easy on foot within Florence; private driver recommended for visiting rural towns on the same day
Tip: Arrive early near Piazza Duomo for a good viewing point of the parade
Festa della Befana & Artisan Markets — Arezzo (5–6 January)
Arezzo—already famous for its antiques market—hosts a warm and welcoming Befana festival each January. The historic centre fills with artisan stalls, street performers and family-friendly workshops, giving the city a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
Children gather in Piazza Grande for the arrival of the Befana, often accompanied by local folklore groups. At night, the city’s medieval architecture glows under winter lights, creating a beautifully atmospheric setting for a stroll.
Our clients love Arezzo for its authenticity: it’s less crowded than Florence, yet deeply rooted in craftsmanship and Tuscan tradition.
How to Get There
Best base: Arezzo or Cortona
From Florence: 1 hour by private driver; trains available but not ideal for late-night return
Tip: Combine with a visit to a local winery or artisan workshop
San Antonio Abate Celebrations — Siena Province (17 January)
In rural Tuscany, the feast of Saint Anthony Abbot—protector of animals—remains one of the most cherished winter traditions. Many small towns in the Siena province hold blessings of animals, community lunches, and parades featuring traditional dress.
Places such as Monteroni d’Arbia, Buonconvento, and Asciano are especially known for their festivities. Locals bring their pets, farm animals, and horses to be blessed by the parish priest, creating a warm, communal atmosphere that visitors rarely see.
This celebration offers something truly different: a look into Tuscany’s agricultural roots and the deep connection between families, land and tradition.
How to Get There
Best base: Siena
Transport: Private driver recommended; villages are sparsely connected by public transport
Tip: Dress warmly—many activities take place outdoors in the countryside
Sant’Antonio Bonfires — Pitigliano & Southern Tuscany (Mid-January)
Further south near the border with Lazio, several towns host impressive bonfire nights honouring Sant’Antonio. The most atmospheric take place in Pitigliano, where huge fires illuminate the tufa cliffs and medieval lanes.
Locals gather for roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and small food stands offering regional specialities. It’s an intimate, rustic event—perfect for travellers who want to step away from tourist centres and witness something genuinely local.
How to Get There
Best base: Pitigliano or Saturnia
Transport: Private driver highly recommended; this area is remote and not linked by rail
Tip: Combine with a morning soak in the Saturnia thermal springs for the perfect winter day
Carnevale Preview Events — Viareggio (Late January)
Although the main Viareggio Carnival takes place in February, late January often includes preview events, workshops and small parades as the giant papier-mâché floats are unveiled.
Visiting during this period allows clients to experience the artistry behind Carnival without the crowds. You can see artisans at work in the Cittadella del Carnevale, observe early rehearsals, and enjoy the festive buzz around town.
It’s a fun, colourful contrast to Tuscany’s more traditional winter festivals.
How to Get There
Best base: Viareggio or Lucca
From Florence: 1.5 hours by private driver
Tip: Stop in Lucca on the way back for an evening walk along the Renaissance walls
Final Tips for Enjoying Winter Festivals in Tuscany
- Book a private driver for evening events; rural towns have limited transport in winter.
- Dress in layers — Tuscany can be cold, especially in hilltop towns.
- Try seasonal treats like schiacciata alla fiorentina, cavallucci, ricciarelli and vin brûlé.
- Arrive early for parades and blessings; village squares fill quickly.
- Embrace spontaneity — many small towns host unadvertised events and community gatherings.
Ready to Experience Tuscany’s Winter Traditions?
If you’re planning a winter escape in 2026, our Tuscany specialists can design a fully personalised itinerary that includes the region’s most meaningful festivals, charming villages, and hidden local traditions. From private drivers to boutique stays and curated food experiences, we’ll help you see Tuscany in a way few travellers do.
Get in touch today to begin planning your Tuscany winter journey.
Want to build your trip around Tuscany’s most delicious events? We can help. Our team curates fully tailored tours, villa stays, and authentic culinary experiences that align perfectly with the region’s seasonal sagre.
👉 Contact us today to plan your 2026 vacation in Tuscany—filled with flavor, culture, and unforgettable moments.
