June 21 Summer Solstice Free Holistic Activities & Concerts

The summer solstice is approaching, and Florence’s historic convent-turned-café, the Cherubini Conservatory and Fiesole’s Roman theatre are offering plethora of free activities on the longest day of the year.

Il Conventino is located on Via della Giana della Bella in Florence near Porta Romana. This year, in collaboration with Associazione Città Sostenibile (Sustainable City Association), Il Conventino is hosting its third celebration of International Yoga Day on June 21, the day of the Summer Solstice. The festival will feature a variety of relaxing activities, all at no cost. The day-long event begins at 9 am with a guided yoga session. Throughout the day, there are several more yoga sessions as well as lessons in color and sound therapy, aromatherapy, guided visualisations, tarot readings, holistic therapy and more activities in the same vein. There are even yoga sessions specifically designed for children aged four to 12. All activities require a prior registration. The Il Conventino event concludes at 8 pm, with several sessions spanning the whole day.

The Cherubini Conservatory Symphonic Orchestra are interpreting pieces by Mozart and Mendelssohn at the music school’s Sala del Buonumore at Piazza delle Belle Arti (near piazza San Marco) at 9 pm with free entrance.

After a day at Il Conventino, Italian Youth Orchestra will be headlining during another Summer Solstice staple, a concert. The at 9:15 p.m. at the Teatro Romano in Fiesole (bus 7). The Teatro Romano is a historic amphitheater built by the Romans, which still hosts the original stone seating (today with cushions). The Italian Youth Orchestra will play Igor Stravinsky’s Concert Suite, followed by Beethoven’s Second Symphony. This performance is free of charge with a mandatory prior registration.

Florence’s rich culture provides several opportunities to explore the region during the summer Solstice with plenty of engaging activities free of charge.  (Mia Schaeperkoetter)