For upcoming events, shows, theater, exhibitions, and other entertainment, look for one of the events magazines, like Events in Florence and Tuscany bimonthly and very good, sometimes at newsstands and Vista. Another free magazine is Concierge Information, full of good bilingual hints and tips. At the Via Cavour tourist office you can also pick up the free Firenze Avventimenti events brochure, giving facts about each major event for the year, including contact 055 numbers. Also the free "Informacittą" monthly pamphlet.

Jan. 5-6: Epiphany Celebrations. Roman Catholic Epiphany celebrations and decorations are evident throughout the area.

Easter: The Easter Sunday Scoppio del Carro, or "Explosion of the Cart," is the eruption of a cartful of fireworks in the Cathedral Square, set off by a mechanical dove released from the altar during High Mass.

Late April.-Early July: The Florence May Music Festival is the oldest and most prestigious Italian festival of the performing arts.