Explosion of the Cart in Florence, Italy – Easter 2025

Explosion of the Cart in Florence, Italy

A Spectacular Easter Tradition in Tuscany - Easter 2025

by Anastasia Bakker Florence, Italy April 11, 2025

Explosion of the Cart in Florence, Italy - Easter Tradition in Tuscany - Easter 2025 Every Easter Sunday in Florence, Italy, one of the very special and exciting things to see takes place – the Explosion of the Cart, or in Italian, Scoppio del Carro.

It’s a fun and colorful Tuscan Easter tradition with fireworks, music, and a lot of history behind it. If you're planning to visit Florence for Easter 2025, here’s everything you need to know about this amazing celebration.

The Explosion of the Cart isn’t just about fireworks. There’s a parade, a historical procession with flag-throwers and drummers, music, traditional costumes, and a great feeling of celebration in the air.

It’s one of the best days to visit Florence and enjoy a true Italian Easter tradition.

What Is the Explosion of the Cart in Florence?

The Explosion of the Cart is a big Easter tradition in Florence. A large wooden cart, called the Brindellone, is pulled through the streets by white oxen and parked in front of the Florence Cathedral (Duomo).

At 11:00 AM, during the Easter Mass, a small dove-shaped rocket (called the colombina) flies from the inside of the church to the cart outside. When it hits the cart, it sets off a fireworks show! The fireworks and noise are meant to bring luck, peace, and a good harvest for the coming year.

This tradition is more than 900 years old. It started after the First Crusade, when a brave knight from Florence named Pazzino de' Pazzi brought back three special stones from Jerusalem. These stones were used to start the holy fire of Easter.

Over time, the event turned into a big public show that mixes religion, history, and fun for locals and visitors alike.

Easter in Italy Traditions - Easter in Florence, Tuscany

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When and Where in 2025?

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If you are staying in Rome and would like to visit Florence for Easter, you can take aPrivate Transfer from Rome.

In 2025, Easter Sunday is on April 20. The Explosion of the Cart will happen that morning in Piazza del Duomo, Florence, Italy right in front of the Florence Cathedral.

Schedule for the Explosion of the Cart for April 20, 2025 (times may change slightly):

9:00 AM – A parade with musicians and people in historical costumes starts from Piazzale del Prato.
10:00 AM – The cart arrives in front of the Duomo.
11:00 AM – The fireworks begin with the flying dove during the Easter Mass.

Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, as the square fills quickly.

Is It Free? Do I Need Tickets?

Yes, the Explosion of the Cart is completely free and open to the public. No tickets are required to attend the event in the square.

However, access to the interior of the Florence Cathedral during Easter Mass may be limited and reserved for worshippers. For those who wish to combine the experience with a guided Easter tour or want reserved seating in nearby vantage points, some private tour operators offer paid experiences. Booking early is recommended due to high demand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Easter bird in Florence? View Answer+

The "Easter bird" in Florence refers to the "Colombina", a small, dove-shaped rocket that plays a key role in the Explosion of the Cart (Scoppio del Carro) ceremony on Easter Sunday.

What time is Mass at Santa Maria Novella Florence for Easter Sunday?view answer+

For Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella in Florence is scheduled to hold Holy Masses at 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, and 6:00 PM.

Is anything open in Florence on Easter? view answer+

Yes, many restaurants, cafés, and major churches in Florence remain open on Easter Sunday, especially in the city center. Most shops, banks, and small businesses are closed, but tourist services and Easter events like the Explosion of the Cart continue as scheduled. Always check museum hours in advance, as some may open with limited access.

What do Italians do on Easter Sunday? view answer+

Italians attend Easter Mass, enjoy a big family lunch with traditional foods like lamb and Colomba cake, and often exchange chocolate eggs. Many also take part in local religious events like Florence’s Explosion of the Cart.