2026 Firenze dei Bambini Children’s Festival: Pinocchio Amidst Half-Truths

“Lies, my boy, are recognized immediately, for there are two kinds: there are lies that have short legs, and lies that have long noses; yours, precisely, is of the kind that has a long nose.” 

– Carlo Collodi, The Adventures of Pinocchio

For the 200th anniversary of the birth of Carlo Collodi—from May 22 until May 24, 2026, there will be three days of exciting activities, performances, and workshops inspired by Pinocchio and the easily blurred lines between truth and lie. Museums, libraries, public squares, and iconic Florentine landmarks will all be venues for this 13th edition of Firenze dei Bambini, or Florence for Children, dedicated to Collodi (the pen name of  this children’s classic author was born Carlo Lorenzini in 1826).

Florence will be transformed into a land of toys, where children can get lost and find themselves again. Find yourself among the temptations of Lampwick, the snares of the Cat and the Fox, the counsel of the Blue Fairy or the Talking Cricket. This event was organized under the patronage of the National Carlo Collodi Foundation, and offers people a unique opportunity to relive the adventures of the world’s most famous marionette. 

“Firenze dei Bambini celebrates one of the most beloved authors of childhood—one deeply tied to our city—transforming Florence into a space for discovery, imagination, and shared growth”, explains Benedetta Albanese, the City of Florence’s Councilor for Education.

At the festival, there will be workshops, games, performances, readings, and other city-wide activities. The event aims to offer children and young people with an exciting and engaging educational and cultural experience, while remembering the extraordinary legacy of Carlo Collodi and his connection to Florence.

‘Firenze dei Bambini’ kicks off on Friday morning with a series of educational projects for school classes, taking place across the city’s cultural venues and within school classrooms themselves. There will be a magnificent Pinocchio who comes to life at the Meyer Pediatric Hospital.

During the week, activities will be geared toward families with children aged 0 – 12, tailored to suit various age groups. There will be an illustration workshop and a book-signing session for renowned illustrator Roberto Innocenti. On Saturday evening, you may book a truly unique “Night at the Museum” experience, which will take place at the Stefano Bardini Museum, Palazzo Medici Riccardi, and Palazzo Vecchio (limited spots available; advance booking is mandatory).

From Saturday, May 23 and Sunday, May 24, Palazzo Vecchio will offer children the opportunity to draw, thanks to a collaboration with the Bologna Children’s Book Fair and the Accademia Drosselmeier. These are just a few of many initiatives that will be occurring throughout the magical weekend.

Firenze dei Bambini is made possible thanks to the support of entities including: the Metropolitan City of Florence with the contribution of the CR Firenze Foundation; and the support of the Meyer Foundation, the Istituto degli Innocenti, the European University Institute, and the Military Geographic Institute.  (H.D.)