Lucignano is a small, hilltop medieval village in the Val di Chiana, on the border between the provinces of Arezzo and Siena. Every year it welcomes spring with its ancient May festival- the Maggiolata.
“The Maggiolata in Lucignano is one of the most prestigious enterprises in Tuscany held in a medieval city, one of the few that has three intact walls, which played an important agricultural role in the history of our territory. The Maggiolata was at one time a festival that was widely celebrated throughout Tuscany to welcome the warmer seasons, and that only a few towns have been able to preserve. ”
Eugenio Giani, president of the Regional Council of Tuscany
This year’s program will be as exciting as ever! The historic opening ceremonies of the Maggiolata will be on May 16th with its parade through the streets of town and the historical procession of Lucignano, folk groups and the musical band G. Rosini of Lucignano; followed by a performance by the groups at the Pinetina park.
On Sunday, May 19th at 10.30 am the historical parade of Lucignano and historical relay race between rivaling districts will take place. At 4.00 pm the Maggiolata Lucignanese with the parade of flowered floats, bands and folk groups will follow. On Tuesday, May 21st at 9.30pm the famous Maggiolata in Nocturne will take place with the parade of floral floats, bands and folk groups. On Sunday, June 2nd at 4.00 pm the Maggiolata will have its final run with the parade of floral floats, bands and folk groups, and the historic “Battle of the Flowers”.
Every evening there will be dinner served at the stand at 8pm with a traditional menu or pizza or special dishes that vary based on the date. In addition, almost every evening there will be entertainment ranging from salsa music to DJ sets, to an 80’s party and much more! There’s something for all tastes and ages!
Admission Fees are as follows:
Full price €. 8.00; Reduced €. 6.00; Groups €. 7.00; Children up to 10 years: Free; 3-Day Pass (2 Sun. + Tues.): 17.00 euros; Night (including tasting): 6.00 euros
Lucignano and its four districts (Porta Murata, Porta San Giusto, Porta San Giovanni and Via dell’Amore) await you to celebrate with them and to see which district will win the prestigious “Grifo d’Oro” prize!
Please consult the event’s official website for the detailed program of events.
photo copyrights: maggiolatalucignanese.it