Scoppio del Carro 2026: Florence’s Fiery Easter Tradition

Florence’s Piazza del Duomo will once again host the spectacular Scoppio del Carro (Explosion of the Cart) on Easter Sunday, 5th April 2026. This unique secular-religious folk tradition is the symbolic heart of Florentine Easter celebrations, drawing enthusiastic locals and curious tourists alike. Its origins trace back to the First Crusade, linking to a valiant Florentine captain, Pazzino de’ Pazzi, who received three fragments of the Holy Sepulchre.

Easter Sunday Tradition in Florence, Tuscany: Scoppio del Carro

The event features the “Brindellone,” a tall, colourful cart adorned with Florentine emblems. Pulled by decorated oxen and escorted by the Historical Procession of the Florentine Republic, the cart arrives at the Duomo. At precisely 11 am, a dove-shaped rocket, the “colombina,” launches from the Cathedral’s altar, gliding along a wire to ignite the cart. This triggers hundreds of multicoloured smoke plumes, whistles, and explosions from fireworks, culminating in a dazzling spinning top at its peak. A successful flight of the “colombina” traditionally bodes well for a bountiful harvest.

This vibrant spectacle also ties into another significant Florentine event: the Calcio Storico. Before the Scoppio del Carro, the semi-final teams for the historic football tournament are drawn, adding to the day’s excitement. Don’t miss this unforgettable display of history, folklore, and pyrotechnics in the heart of Florence.

Event Details:

• What: Scoppio del Carro (Explosion of the Cart)
• When: Easter Sunday, 5th April 2026
• Where: Piazza del Duomo, 5, 50122 Florence FI, Italy
• More Info: A centuries-old Florentine Easter tradition