What to do in Tuscany in January

Yes, good question, what is there to do in January in Tuscany? Well, loads. But before we start with writing up our list on this clean slate Valentina and me (Sophie) would like to wish you a super duper 2016! May you have a fab year full of fun (in Tuscany, of course)!

So, let’s check out the events in Tuscany this January. Besides signing up for the gym, starting a diet and being nicer to the ones around you, there are many things you can do this month that are actually feasible. For example, taking down the Christmas tree, waving off La Befana and the Three Kings and deciding which fun Tuscan events to attend.

If you missed the Re Magi, the Three Kings, on the 6^th go and check them out the 9^th of January in Borgo San Lorenzo. Three dressed up men on horseback will leave from Villa Pecori Giraldi and will be accompanied by flag-throwers and musicians from Castel San Barnaba. Is there anything more enticing to start the year with?

Sweet tooth for Tuscan treats?

Ate too much at Christmas and feel like losing some weight? Well, too bad, it’s going to be impossible with these food festivals planned introducing the carnival season. La Sagra delle Frittelle in San Donato in Collina will serve fried sweet delicacies made with rice, milk, sugar, orange and some raisins. The fritelle are symbolic for il carnevale and will be served each weekend for the coming three months.

Have you ever tried a traditional neccio? This is made with chestnut flour and water and can be compared to a type of pancake. The classic version has ricotta cheese on it, but Italians wouldn’t be Italians if they didn’t offer the Nutella variety too. Get a taste of these sweet treats at the Sagra del Neccio in Migliana on the 17^th and 25^th of January.

Shopping spree

Ready to give your apartment a fresh look? Head to the antique market Fortezza Antiquaria on January 16^th and 17^th at the park behind Fortezza da Basso. They sell loads of vintage antiques and other knickknacks to decorate your place with. If you feel like continuing your shopping spree, go to Piazza Santo Spirito on the 17^th for the Fierucolina d’inverno. You can find a wide choice of fresh food, handmade and vintage clothes, quirky items and more. Both markets are open from 9am to 7pm.

Carnival for kids

The yearly parade of the Carnevale di Vitolini will kick off on the 10th at 2.30pm in piazza del Popolo in Vitolini. For three Sundays in a row, the town will turn into a kiddy paradise with fancy floats representing, among others, Pinocchio, an enormous singing rooster and the penguins from Madagascar. The prettiest mask will be rewarded with a prize – better start those creative vibes going! More carnival craziness will be happening at the Carnevale di San Giovanni Valdarno including floats with a political theme and fun for kids as well.

Borgo San Lorenzo will also start its carnival early this year. The 17^th the five floats full of cowboys and Indians, Donald Duck, Mickey Mouse and even Minions will entertain your kids. They’ll leave from Piazza Dante at 1:30 pm and in the morning there will be music, food and entertainment too. The fun doesn’t stop until the 7^th of February and will take place every Sunday. From the 17^th or the 24^th many Tuscan towns will organize carnival parades. Check out this site (in Italian) to see which one is nearest to you.

Ready to shine in 2016?

Then don’t miss this special event for which Calligrapher Betty Soldi & Life Coach Sophie have joined forces to create an enlightening workshop entitled ‘New Year – New You’. Sophie’s inspiring words & questions will be animated by Betty’s wonderful writing, which will eventually lead you to find out who you want to be in 2016 – or better, who you will allow yourself to be this New Year. For more info and tickets click here. And yes, that’s me :).

Hope to meet you there & enjoy your January in Tuscany!