If you happen to be in Florence for the Fourth of July and fancy a taste of home, we’ve got you covered. Here’s The Florentine‘s guide to Independence Day 2019.
4th of July Party, Santa Maria Novella
Tuscan American Association 4th July Celebration
Celebrate in style with the Tuscan American Association and Florence Dance Festival. In honour of the US Consulate General Florence’s bicentennial, this special #insieme200 evening begins at 7.30 pm in piazza Santa Maria Novella 18. Fabulous food from both Italy and America will be prepared by Fratelli Cuore, music is provided by the choral group Vocal Blue Trains and a special dance performance by FloDance 2.0 will ensure the evening is a special one.
Light show by the lungarno
Lungarno Vespucci, Florence
A spectacular beam of light will unite palazzo Vecchio with the Amerigo Vespucci bridge, a sign of the strong ties between Florence and the US community. The green light will extend from Palazzo Vecchio’s Tower of Arnolfo to a banner placed on one of the parapets of the Ponte Vespucci bridge, which is named after the Florentine navigator (first name: Amerigo) who gave his name to America.
BBQ beach party and fireworks, RiveR Urban Beach
Another option is the July 4th beach party that will feature a BBQ, live music, DJ and fireworks. Starting at 3pm with a “Beach Day” theme, the event takes place at RiveR Urban Beach (piazza Giuseppe Poggi). Expect volleyball, cabanas and sprinklers as well as a feast of burgers, hot dogs, sausages and other classics from 7pm. Rock to American hits from 8pm with Last Minute Dirty Band. Then, from 9.30pm until late, a DJ will keep you dancing while fireworks light up the night.
Red, White and Boom! Night, Hard Rock Café
Party at the Hard Rock Café with a special menu and concert from 10pm by Steven Tadros and The Fabulous. Sip Red, White and Blue cocktails and raise a glass to the States. Tickets start at 30 euro per person.
Food for thought
If you’re looking for something a bit different, check out the fourth edition of Italian Chef Charity Night. Renowned Tuscan chefs will be on the terrace of Forte Belvedere with some five star food. The funds raised will be used to buy a life-saving machine for Careggi hospital. With a minimum donation of 25 euro, you can celebrate and honour independence by giving something to a worthy cause.
Read a statement from Benjamin V. Wohlauer, U.S. Consul General in Florence, for the 243rd Anniversary of American Independence.
