BEATS/ Firenze Jazz Festival
September 17-20
The perfect blend of culture, music and (safely distant) sociability summarises the 4th edition of the Firenze Jazz Festival. It promises to be more memorable than ever as charming locations from the Oltrarno to the hills surrounding Florence are chosen as spots to hear the sweet strains of jazz. 10 events make up the programme this year, taking in 7 locations that include Santa Rosa Bistro, Villa Bardini, Il Circolo Rondinella del Torrino, Villa Demidoff in Pratolino and Le Tre Rane Ruffino in Poggio Casciano. The top-class line-up features Danilo Rea, Tinissima Quartet, Nico Gori, Alessandro Lanzoni Trio, L’Orchestino, Roberto Ottaviano UK Legacy, Francesco Zampini Trio and the Girlesque Street Band.
The graphic image for FJF 2020, created by Chiara De Marchis Garofalo, is a tribute to the origins of jazz with its roots in the pain and slavery of the African American community, a pain that is still present to this today. Representing Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Nina Simone and Billie Holiday, the 4 greatest female jazz singers of all time, the image intends to remind us of the continued struggles against racism and sexism.
Ticket prices vary from free, to 25 euro, but delectable dining is included where the ticket includes dinner in the courtyard of Ruffino’s Le Tre Rane. From brass bands to Ellingtonian blues, sound invigorates the city with creativity and can even be followed live on Facebook and Instagram, with introductions to the artists, locations and festival activities shared daily.
Various locations
CINEMA/ Florence Korea Film Fest
September 23-30
The 18th Florence Korea Film Fest will be a mix of screenings held at Cinema la Compagnia, and online. Shown in original language with both Italian and English subtitles, the programme is divided into Korean Horizons, dedicated to contemporary film stars; Independent Korea, for young and talented directors outside of large-scale distribution; and Corto Corti, devoted to short films. K-History and K-Documentary complete the programme. At the centre of this year’s festival is Cho Jin-woong, the well-known actor who has charted up over 50 performances across cinema and television, with that of the villain his most played role. Oscar-winner Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite will be shown on September 30, preceded by a video-greeting by the renowned director. The final evening will also see the awarding of prizes voted by the public and jury. Full programme available on their website and you can read our interview with the director and founder of the festival, Riccardo Gelli here.
Cinema La Compagnia,
via Camillo Cavour 50 R
SIP/ Vino al Vino 2020
10am-6pm, September 19-20
Head to the homeland of wine in Panzano in Chianti for two days of vino excellence. Drive to the producers of the Viticulturists Union to sample the very best wine in the vin-tastic region, in a special edition of the festival that celebrates 25 years of collaboration with the locals and wine producers. Discover the unique flavours of Chianti Classico while nestled in the very landscape that makes it so wonderful. 22 companies of the Viticulturists Union will open their doors in an itinerant event where you can immerse yourself in the “bio-territoriality” that distinguishes Panzano in Chianti, with 90% of vines grown according to organic viticulture criteria. Reservation is not required, simple arrive in Piazza Bucciarelli where you can purchase a glass and a map, and then you are on your way to accessing the free tastings.
FILM/ Miss Marx
From September 23
Fresh from the Venice Film Festival, Miss Marx directed by Susanna Nicchiarelli, is the lesser-known story of Eleanor, the youngest daughter of Karl Marx. Brilliant and passionate, she was active in feminist and socialist movements; particularly workers’ struggles, the abolition of child labour and fervently fought for women’s rights. 1883 marks the moment her tragic fate began, when she met Edward Aveling, and her lift changed forever. Find out more here.
Odeon Cinema,
Florence
CHUCKLE/ Firenze Laughs
September 18-20
I think we can all agree it’s time for a good laugh. There dedicated days to chuckles, giggles and uproarious take place from September 18-20, featuring open mic contests and well-known Italian comics. You’re bound to emerge feeling lighter and with your cares cast aside. Enjoy an aperitivo onsite as you wait, or pick up some street food and even clothes and antiques in a mini-market. Tickets can be purchased on Dice.fm for 7 euro, or 12 euro for a three-night pass. Early bird subscription 10 euro. More information at www.lndf.it.
Ippodromo del Visarno,
Florence
CHEERS/ Florence Cocktail Week
September 21-27
Time to explore some of the best bars in Tuscany with a week dedicated to bartender brilliance and some of the top-quality cocktails emerging from the city’s hot spots. With masterclasses, aperitivos, and delectable drinks to enjoy, both Florence Cocktail Week (September 21-27) and Tuscany Cocktail Week (September 14-20) feature cocktail menus with concoctions you’ve never seen, served from from some of the most picturesque terraced bars and atmospheric settings, allowing you to explore parts of the region you might never know otherwise. During the festival, Cocktail bars will be divided into Hotel Bars, Cocktail Bars and High Volume Bars, each creating a cocktail list to comprise of: 1 Signature Cocktail, 1 Cocktail RiEsco a Bere Italiano (with products from companies participating in RiEsco a Bere Italiano), 1 Eco Cocktail (ecological and sustainable cocktail) and 1 New Era Cocktail (Twist on an IBA drink in the New Era category). Read more about the cocktail fest here.
ARTISAN / Artigianato e Palazzo
September 17–20
This annual market-showcase presents the crème de la crème of local, national and international craftsmanship. In the lush Corsini Gardens, the 26th Artigianato e Palazzo will spotlight numerous master artisans, many of whom offer live demonstrations of their techniques. This year’s show will be dedicated to the memory of Princess Giorgiana Corsini, who passed away this summer. To view details and purchase tickets, visit the website.
Corsini Gardens,
via della Scala 15, Florence
SNAP/ Photographic Excursion with Oasi Dynamo
3.30pm, September 20
A photographic expedition organized by Oasi Dynamo delves deep into the countryside, guiding you on how best to photograph animals, even those who are dodging the camera! Learning how to track animals and figure out their hiding places, an expert will explain the tricks of the trade, allowing you to capture incredible pictures. Hiking boots, heavy clothing and waterproof gear are recommended. Meeting at 3.30pm in Limestre, return scheduled for 8pm. Reservations required at info@oasidynamo.org or T: 331 2621947
TEA/ British Experience at Villa Castelletti
September 20
Picnics, croquet and 5 o’clock tea, all things quintessentially British come to Villa Castelletti for a day dedicated to English country living. With vintage cars and poetry readings (in Italian), the words of Samuel Coleridge and John Keats will fill the idyllic surroundings of the former home of the illustrious Cavalcanti family, for a day-long tribute to the United Kingdom. A ploughman’s lunch gives sustenance while Pimm’s will be in plentiful supply. Free guided tours of the villa will depart hourly. Finishing off the festivities, a competition for the most original lady’s hat will rustle excitement. Phone 055 0763602 for more.
Villa Castelletti,
via Castelletti, 5, Signa