Epiphany in Pistoia is a celebration that involves the entire city, with special events for families, children, and adults. The traditional figure of the Befana, who brings sweets and gifts to good children, is at the heart of the festivities, enhanced by cultural events and performances that transform the city into a magical place on January 6th.
The Befana in Piazza del Duomo
Date: January 6, 2025
Time: From 10:00 AM
Location: Piazza del Duomo, Pistoia
Description: Pistoia’s city center comes alive for the arrival of the Befana, with events taking place in Piazza del Duomo, one of the city’s iconic locations. In the morning, the square hosts a series of activities for children, such as creative workshops, themed games, and animation shows. Children will also have the chance to meet the Befana, who will arrive in the square to distribute sweets and gifts, offering a pleasant surprise for families who decide to take part.
The Befana Parade
Date: January 6, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM
Location: Piazza del Duomo and the Historic Center
Description: One of Pistoia’s most beloved traditions is the Befana parade, which winds through the historic center. The Befana, along with other fairy-tale characters, will march through the main streets of the city, accompanied by music and dance, creating a festive and lively atmosphere. The parade starts from Piazza del Duomo and goes through to Piazza della Sala, where gifts will be distributed to the little ones.
Theatrical Performances and Animations
Date: January 6, 2025
Time: From 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Location: Piazza della Sala and Teatro Manzoni
Description: For Epiphany, Piazza della Sala becomes the stage for numerous theatrical performances and animations for families. In particular, Teatro Manzoni will organize a special performance for children, with stories and fairy-tales involving the little ones in an enchanted journey through the Epiphany tradition. The performances will also include live music and puppet shows.
Epiphany Markets
Date: January 6, 2025
Time: From 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Location: Piazza della Sala and Piazza del Comune
Description: The traditional Christmas markets in Pistoia continue into Epiphany, with stalls offering local crafts, toys, traditional sweets, and gastronomic products. In particular, Piazza della Sala hosts the Christmas market, where visitors can buy original gifts for the new year and discover Pistoia’s culinary specialties, such as mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and panforte.
The Solemn Mass of Epiphany
Date: January 6, 2025
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Cathedral of San Zeno, Pistoia
Description: The Epiphany day begins with the celebration of the Solemn Mass of Epiphany at the Cathedral of San Zeno, located in Piazza del Duomo. The religious service is one of the most significant moments for the people of Pistoia and is accompanied by sacred hymns and music. For those interested in spirituality, it is an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of the Epiphany and participate in a traditional ritual of the city.
The Magi Cavalcade
Date: January 6, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: Historic Center
Description: One of the most spectacular traditions in Pistoia is the Magi Cavalcade, which takes place in the afternoon of January 6th. A procession of knights, dressed in historical costumes, represents the journey of the Three Wise Men to Bethlehem. The procession will start from Piazza del Duomo and head toward Piazza della Sala, where a short theatrical performance will take place, dedicated to the gifts brought by the Magi. This event is especially appreciated by children, who will be able to see the Wise Men in traditional costumes, riding horses.