The famous Antiques Fair of Arezzo is one of the most important and largest antique fairs in Italy, held every first Sunday of the month and the preceding Saturday.

Pictures and paintings, small jewels, ancient and modern furniture, carpets, clocks, silverware, toys, books and vintage prints, collection stamps, musical instruments, gramophones and radios: it is easy to be charmed and indulge in discovering one of the biggest and oldest Italian Antiques Fairs. 

In 1968 a famous antiquarian and collector of Arezzo, Ivan Bruschi, gave birth to this fair which still today fills with its curious bric-a-brac the old town centre, its streets, yards, Vasari Loggia and wonderful Piazza Grande, every first weekend of the month.

For two days the town changes into a multicolor scenery of treasures waiting to be discovered by tourists and collectors: over five hundreds exhibitors from all over Italy meet here with their furniture and objects of all periods and styles, while antiquarians and restorers have multiplied their business, opening their shops during the fair and showing their best items. Experts of antiques and modern antique collecting find here plenty of particular specializations, such as, for instance, scientific tools, Art-Nouveau stained glass windows, Art Deco furnishing.

Lucca Comics & Games is an annual convention dedicated to comics, animation, games (role-playing, board games, card games), video games and the imaginary fantasy and science fiction, which this year takes place in Lucca from  October 30 to November 3, 2024.

 It is the most popular comic fair in Italy, the second in Europe (after the Angoulême Comics Festival, in France) and the third in the world (the first is the Comiket in Tokyo, Japan).

The event takes place in the heart of Lucca: the streets and squares of the old town center change into a big fair with stands and pavilions.

Also this year the organization proposes a winning programme: exhibitions, meetings with authors,

live performances, conferences and the traditional comic-strip market. There will be also the usual “competitions”: from medieval tournaments to reproductions of costumes of comic-strip characters, from concerts to board and electronic games.

For details of the program  ☞ www.luccacomicsandgames.com

First Sunday of the month: museums free entrance

It is a very important event involving all the State Museums with specials and free tickets access. Therefore, if you plan to visit Florence, Pisa, Lucca or any other Tuscan town our countless masterpieces without spending one Euro!

For instance in Florence you can visit: the Uffizi Gallery, Academy Museum, Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens, Bargello Museum, Medici Chapels, and many other attractions. All of them free of charge!

List of  State Museums in Tuscany HERE. 

Free admission to all the State Museums on Italy's National Unity and Armed Forces Day.

List of State Museums of Tuscany HERE. 

In Pistoia, the second Saturday and Sunday of the month an antique fair is held which attracts  many dealers from all over Tuscany. Here you can find very valuable antiques: furniture, majolica, porcelain, jewelery, clocks, coins, old lacework, crystal goblets and profane and religious period paintings.

On the stalls you can find clothing, utensils and ethnic products, as well as magazines, comics, used garments and other items from the past. 

The market takes place in the so called Cattedrale - not to confuse with the real Cathedral - (Via Pertini) - eccept July and August.

There are about 100 exhibitors who animate the historic city center with various kinds of antiques every second Saturday and Sunday of the month except July and August.

You will find ceramics, glassware and cutlery for a romantic table setting and a very good range of embroidered linen (perhaps an untouched trousseau from a failed marriage). Also sepia paintings, watercolours, vintage  postcards (full of insight into how we lived in the past and complete with shaky handwriting), out-of-print books for the attentive book collector, silver and gold coins from every corner of the globe and much, much more.

Where: Pisa, Piazza dei Cavalieri, Piazza Garibaldi

On Saturday, November 9, a new edition of “Brocantage” will take place at Porta a Mare, Livorno, a charming location born from the restoration of the former Luigi Orlando Shipyard, a testament to the city's glorious past. This event, now a reference point among markets of its kind in Tuscany, hosts numerous exhibitors showcasing rare and curious objects from bygone times. It is the perfect opportunity to spend a day in Livorno, a welcoming city known for its delicious cuisine and picturesque settings.  

Don't miss a stroll along its beautiful seafront, a visit to the Montenero hill with the Sanctuary of the Madonna, Patroness of Tuscany, and a tour through the city center, crossed by the characteristic Medici Canals, known locally as “fossi”.  

Also worth exploring are the Old and New Fortresses, the magnificent Covered Market, and many other attractions.

On Saturday, November 9, and Sunday, November 10, 2024, Pistoia will host the World Cup of Majorette Sport at the PalaCarrara in Sant’Agostino, Pistoia.

Numerous athletes will compete as soloists, duos, small formations, and groups in the cadet, junior, and senior categories, showcasing their skills with batons, flags, ribbons, and pom-poms. This true sport-spectacle, originating in the United States in the 1920s and later spreading to Italy, is closely connected to the development of marching bands.

The event is an open international competition for all Majorette athletes.

Saturday Night Spa

Saturday, November 9, 16 and 23

from 7:00 PM to midnight

For an evening of pure relaxation, pamper yourself with a soothing bath under the stars in the thermal pool with rejuvenating whirlpools and

reinvigorate yourself with a steam bath in Europe's largest thermal cave at 34°C.

Includes:

Steam bath in natural thermal cave at 34°C (20 minutes)

Bathing under the stars in the 750 sqm thermal pool at 34°C with underwater whirlpools

Bathing in the Bioaquam thermal path at 34°C with rejuvenating whirlpools

Access to the Thermarium area

Access to the "Bioaquam Pavilion" the new covered and heated relaxation area of 310 m2

Lounge music

€35.00 by reservation

Bioaquam Café poolside open with à la carte menu

(payment upon consumption)

For more information, call 

+39 0572/9077992 or email terme@grottagiustispa.com

There are about 100 exhibitors who animate the historic city center with various kinds of antiques every second Saturday and Sunday of the month except July and August.

You will find ceramics, glassware and cutlery for a romantic table setting and a very good range of embroidered linen (perhaps an untouched trousseau from a failed marriage). Also sepia paintings, watercolours, vintage  postcards (full of insight into how we lived in the past and complete with shaky handwriting), out-of-print books for the attentive book collector, silver and gold coins from every corner of the globe and much, much more.

Where: Pisa, Piazza dei Cavalieri, Piazza Garibaldi

Antiques market, vintage clothing, collectibles, crafts and home accessories. 

9 am - 8 pm 

Piazza S. Maria delle Carceri

Info: +39 3483396638

Second among the antique-dealers' market places of Tuscany for the number of its exhibitors and length of life, the Antique market of Lucca can boast of a solid tradition of quality and reliability thanks to professional antiquarians of high prestige who have always been an important presence in town. 

At the third weekend of each month (on Saturday and Sunday), from 8 am to 7 pm, Lucca opens its gates for a joyful event involving a large portion of the historical centre: from Piazza S. Martino, Piazza Antelminelli and Via Del Battistero - the historical antique dealers' street- ‚ to Piazza San Giusto, and Piazza S. Giovanni up to Piazza Bernardini. It is a gorgeous display of colorful stalls offering not only past vestiges of remarkable artistic value, but also traces of souvenirs impressed on a post-card, on a book, on a knick-knack or on an ornament. 

Furniture, clothes, fabrics, paintings, rare components of old instruments, lamps and chandeliers, old working tools, records..... a wide pattern of old or antique objects‚ patiently gathered and collected after explorations which

are getting more and more difficult. All these things speak to both the tourist and the lover, of a world, which has gone, but not willing to be forgotten yet.

Two unforgettable days around the most charming

streets of the town. It is Art facing Art, History meeting History. A really unique occasion to know Lucca better and taste the pleasure of peeping through the stalls in search of something beautiful to take home and - why not?- probably also making a good bargain! 

Large market to be held in the stadium area in Pistoia on Sunday, November 17, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

From 11 am to 8pm at the Fortezza da Basso

Complete Program here.

The "Gran Cammino di Natale" (Great Christmas Walk) is the Christmas event that will take place in Montecatini Terme from November 17, 2024, to January 7, 2025. This ideal path will guide visitors through various areas of the city, offering activities and attractions for both adults and children.

Full program available on the pictures.

From November 23th to December 22th, 2024, the enchanting atmosphere of the holiday season will come to life again in the picturesque setting of Piazza S. Croce in Florence, with the return of the Historic Christmas Market. This market, one of the first in Italy in terms of tradition and history, will welcome visitors and enthusiasts to a unique experience.

Over fifty stalls, set up in characteristic wooden houses, will bring to Florence the scents and tastes typical of Christmas with a wide selection of artistic craftsmanship and traditional foods from all over Europe. This is an extraordinary opportunity to savor delicious gastronomic specialties, warm up with hot beverages, and browse through the stalls in search of original handmade gift ideas and Christmas decorations.

The market will also offer a packed calendar of events, with a special focus on entertainment for the little ones. Visitors can enjoy the presence of Santa's cottage, where children's games will be organized, and they will be entertained by live music performances.

Opening hours:

- Monday - Thursday: from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

- Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of Christmas in Florence, amidst tradition, fun, and gastronomic delights!

Arti e Mestieri is an arts and crafts market in the historic center of Lucca, with a big number of exhibitors that meet every last weekend of the month in Piazza San Giusto, Piazza Cittadella and Piazza XX Settembre with many traditional and original products from Tuscany.

At Arti e Mestieri there are ceramists, painters, sculptors, leather, glass and papier-mâché artisans, weavers, jewelers, cabinet makers, seamstresses and embroiderers, knitting and crochet experts. The artisans-artists offer their exclusive products in a colorful market: bijoux in silver, ceramic and crochet, natural products for body care, fountain pens worked on the lathe, bags, belts and leather bracelets, painted stones, scented lavender, splendid paintings and sculptures.

Lucca Magical Christmas 2024: A Unique Experience of Tradition, Innovation, and Holiday Magic

The third edition of Lucca Magical Christmas is set to enchant citizens and visitors with an even richer and more captivating program than previous years.  

From November 23, 2024, to January 6, 2025, Lucca will transform into a festive wonderland, blending Christmas traditions with the beauty of its historic city center to create an unforgettable magical atmosphere.

Christmas Markets: A Journey Through Flavors and Traditions

One of this year’s main highlights is the debut of the Christmas Market with wooden chalets in Piazza Napoleone, a true Christmas village featuring local products, handicrafts, and sweets, running from November 23 to January 6.

Other markets will enrich the festive calendar:

- Palazzo Sani, Via Fillungo 121: The “Meraki Market” on December 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 23, and 24.  

- Piazza Anfiteatro: Special event dedicated to chocolate from November 29 to December 1.  

- Piazza San Giusto and Piazza XX Settembre: “Arti e Mestieri” fair on December 7, 8, 21, 22, 27, and 28.  

- Piazza San Frediano: Artisan market from December 18 to 24.  

- Piazza San Francesco: Traditional Christmas fair from December 8 to January 6.  

Ice Park Lucca: The Magic of Ice Skating

For the first time, the Ice Park Lucca will be set up at the Antico Caffè delle Mura square. The ice skating rink will be inaugurated on Friday, November 22, and open daily starting November 23. Skate under the stars or in daylight, surrounded by the historic beauty of the city, complete with entertainment and shows for the public.

Art Installations and Spectacular Lights

Squares and streets in the historic center will sparkle with over ten luminous installations, some designed by internationally renowned artists and designers like Emiliana Martinelli, Michelle Boucquillon, and Francesco Zavattari. Stunning Christmas light projections will illuminate key squares, adding charm and magic to the festive atmosphere.

The Christmas Factory and Santa’s House

Starting December 7, Vicolo San Carlo will transform into the Christmas Factory, a dedicated space for children featuring free workshops, creative activities, and the chance to meet Santa Claus in his magical room. Young visitors can write letters to Santa, hand-deliver them, and take a keepsake photo. Opening days are December 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, and 22, from 3 PM to 7 PM.

Nativity Scenes and Traditions

The tradition of nativity scenes takes center stage with a route through churches and historic buildings in the city center:

- Loggiato del Palazzo Pretorio: A Nativity scene designed by Francesco Zavattari.  

- Chiesa di Santa Maria Nera: A historic 17th-century Nativity scene.  

- Chiesa di San Benedetto in Gottella: Artistic Nativity with scenic lighting and music.  

- Baluardo San Colombano: Nativity set up outside the namesake venue.  

- Sotterraneo della piattaforma San Frediano: “Fiat Pax,” featuring antique plaster figurines, curated by Historica Lucense.  

- National Museum of Villa Guinigi: A special focus on Nativities in the museum’s collection of grand paintings.  

AtmoSphere Circus: Christmas Becomes a Spectacle

For the first time in Lucca, the AtmoSphere Circus will take place at Piazzale Don Baroni from December 20 to January 19. This animal-free circus will present a unique show featuring 3D holographic animals and a 360° stage. A blend of innovation and tradition promises an unforgettable holiday experience.

Guided Tours and Thematic Walks

Lucca’s tourist guides offer original and engaging tours to explore the city immersed in its holiday spirit. For more details, visit the Tourism.Lucca website under the Stories & Treasures of Lucca section.

For full details and the complete program, visit the official Tourism.Lucca website.

On Sunday, Noember 24, from 9 AM to 6 PM, Pescia Antiqua returns to Piazza Mazzini and the historic center. This antiques, collectibles, crafts, and vintage market, which enjoys significant public success, will be held in the central Piazza Mazzini, the historic market square of Pescia. As always, it will attract a true army of curious visitors and enthusiasts looking for that special piece or item needed to complete their collection.

You will be able to search for furniture, paintings, coins, toys, stamps, and books: thousands of objects of all kinds, memorabilia steeped in history, telling the stories of those who previously owned them, seeking new owners who will restore them to their former glory.

On this occasion, local restaurants will offer special menus featuring typical dishes of Pescia cuisine, and public parking throughout the city, including those usually requiring payment, will be free.

Organ concerts with the presence of internationally renowned organists.

FREE ADMISSION

Program:

Friday, May 17th at 9:00 PM

PRESCOTT CHORALE (U.S.A.)

Conductor: Dennis Houser

W.A. MOZART - REQUIEM K 626.

Thursday, May 23rd at 6:30 PM

Andreas Meisner Altenberg (DE)

Friday, June 21st at 6:30 PM

Bernhard Marx Freiburg/Sankt Blasien (DE)

Friday, July 19th at 6:30 PM

Elisa Teglia Bologna (ITA)

Thursday, July 25th at 6:30 PM

Jean-Christophe Geiser Lausanne (CH)

Wednesday, July 31st at 6:30 PM

Przemyslaw Kapitula Warsaw (PL)

Thursday, August 8th at 6:30 PM

Franz Günthner Leuthkirch (DE)

Tuesday, August 20th at 6:30 PM

Josef Still Trier (DE)

Friday, August 23rd at 6:30 PM

Konstantin Reymaier Vienna (AU)

Tuesday, November 26th at 9:00 PM

MOSAIC Canadian Vocal Ensemble Ontario - Canada

Conductor: Gordon Mansell

More details here

Monthly appointment with Collecting in Florence, where the monthly market of all that is collectible takes place outdoors on the banks of the Arno in the Tuscany Hall car park in Florence. Among the various stands, enthusiasts will be able to find books, jewellery, small pieces of furniture, plates, candlesticks, clocks, chandeliers, dolls, porcelain, coins, records, DVDs, etc.

TUSCANY HALL Parking area Via Fabrizio De Andrè

Open from 10.00 to 19.00 in the parking area of the Theater.

FREE ENTRY.

The National Museum has its setting in one of the oldest buildings in Florence that dates back to 1255. 

Initially the headquarters of the Capitano del Popolo (Captain of the People) and later of the Podestà, the palace became, in the sixteenth century, the residence of the Bargello that is of the head of the police (from which the palace takes its name) and was used as prison during the whole 18th century.

Its walls witnessed important episodes of civic history. It was the meeting place of the Council of the Hundred in which Dante took part. It witnessed sieges, fires, executions, the most famous perhaps being that of Baroncelli, involved in the Pazzi plot against the Medici, which Leonardo also witnessed. During the 14th and 15th century, the palace was subjected to a series of alterations and additions, still preserving its harmonious severity, best seen in the beautiful courtyard, the balcony and the large hall on the first floor.

The building's use as National Museum began in the mid-19th century.

Today it is the setting for works of sculpture, mainly from the grand ducal collections, and for many examples of "minor" Gothic decorative arts.

The large 14th century hall on the first floor displays some works by Donatello (1586-1466) including the early marble David, the St. George moved to this location from the niche in Orsammichele, the more mature and ambiguous bronze David, the Atys and the Marzocco, originally installed on the platform in front  of Palazzo Vecchio. The works of the master are surrounded by the most delicate works of his pupils Desiderio da Settignano (c. 1450-1464) and Antonio Rossellino (c. 1427-1479).

The collection also includes the two panels entered by Lorenzo Ghiberti and Filippo Brunelleschi for the Baptistery door competition of 1401. The Renaissance repertoire comprises the glazed terracottas by Luca della Robbia (1400 -1482) that include a very extraordinary group of Madonna with Child. 

The rooms on the ground floor exhibit Tuscan 16th century works, focusing in particular on four masterpieces by Michelangelo (1475-1564): Bacchus, the relief representing a Madonna with Child, Brutus and David-Apollo. The assortment is then followed by works of Andrea Sansovino (1460-1529), Jacopo Sansovino (1486-1570), Baccio Bandinelli (1488-1560), Bartolomeo Ammannati (1511 - 1592), Benvenuto Cellini (the model of Perseus and the small bronze sculptures were moved to this location from the Loggia dell'Orcagna), down to Giambologna (1529-1608) with his admirable Mercury. The bronze animals that were originally placed in the grotto of the Medici Villa of Castello are now displayed on the staircases.

The museum stores however many other treasures: fine works of art enriched by the Carrand, Ressman and Franchetti collections comprising decorative or "minor" arts are distributed among the several rooms of the Palace, both on the first and second floor. From ivories that include several Roman and Byzantine examples, down to Medieval glazes and Limoges porcelain; from German and French gold works, Renaissance jewels down to Islamic examples of damascened bronze; from grand ducal collections down to Venetian glass. The museum displays several treasures including very unique panel pieces and wooden sculptures. Of note are also the majolicas, arms and small bronze statues.

Two rooms on the second floor are dedicated to the glazed terracottas created by Andrea and Giovanni Della Robbia, besides displaying the bronze David and the Lady with Posy by Verrocchio in the room named after the artist, which displays also an extraordinary collection of busts of Florentine personalities made by some of the most important 15th century artists. One of most important sculptures is the portrait of Costanza Buonarelli by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. It is also worth visiting the very lavish collection of medals belonging to the Medici family.  

The famous Antiques Fair of Arezzo is one of the most important and largest antique fairs in Italy, held every first Sunday of the month and the preceding Saturday.

Pictures and paintings, small jewels, ancient and modern furniture, carpets, clocks, silverware, toys, books and vintage prints, collection stamps, musical instruments, gramophones and radios: it is easy to be charmed and indulge in discovering one of the biggest and oldest Italian Antiques Fairs. 

In 1968 a famous antiquarian and collector of Arezzo, Ivan Bruschi, gave birth to this fair which still today fills with its curious bric-a-brac the old town centre, its streets, yards, Vasari Loggia and wonderful Piazza Grande, every first weekend of the month.

For two days the town changes into a multicolor scenery of treasures waiting to be discovered by tourists and collectors: over five hundreds exhibitors from all over Italy meet here with their furniture and objects of all periods and styles, while antiquarians and restorers have multiplied their business, opening their shops during the fair and showing their best items. Experts of antiques and

modern antique collecting find here plenty of particular specializations, such as, for instance, scientific tools, Art-Nouveau stained glass windows, Art Deco furnishing.