Last week we went to La Rificolona, or the festival of paper lanterns. Like many of this city’s traditions, the festival has been taking place for as long as most Florentine’s can remember. While the traditions that go along with it have taken on new form over the years, the festival originated as a celebration of the life of Virgin Mary and her faith, as many believe September 8th was her birthday.
If you look into the history of La Rificolona, you’ll find that it started as a completely different tradition than what it has grown into today. Every September, dating back to the 16th century, the city of Florence has celebrated Mary’s birthday with a feast and festival. Because of this large celebration, many people from all over the countryside would come to join in the festivities. Not only did they wish to honor the Virgin Mary, but it was right around harvest period, and the events led to big crowds that the farmers and peasants could sell their summer harvests and goods too.
In order to get to the city however, the people from the country needed lights to guide their way, and would carry lanterns on high poles as they walked toward the city. Most would arrive during the great feast, and spend the rest of the evening setting up their stands around the piazza and the church, singing songs and celebrating amongst themselves.
While many people did come and purchase the goods, they also mocked the peasants and farmers, as they were often less fortunate and dressed in different ways. Many of the women wore costumes or overdressed, and that is how the name of the festival came about. The word “Rificolona” actually developed from a word describing these women’s abnormal dress.
Today you may not find this great feast or the traditional market fair, but you will still find a multiple day celebration, especially by the children. Kids from all over come to Florence and carry paper lanterns of all shapes and sizes in a parade around the city, ending in a square with music and food stands. Here you will find families from all over Italy celebrating the holiday.
It was a really neat event and a great way to experience the Italian culture first hand. If you’re ever in Florence around the 8th of September, make sure you join along in the festivities!
Location: Florene, Italy
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