Friday, Dec. 6 (2 – 6 pm), Sat. 7 & Sun. 8 (10 am – 6 pm): AILO CHRISTMAS BAZAAR. Tepidarium, via Bolognese 17/A.
This annual Christmas bazaar, organized by the non-profit American International League of Florence onlus offers a joyful holiday experience while supporting various local charitable associations.
The Bazaar will feature live Christmas music and a special visit from Santa Claus and his elf helpers, who will treat children to candies and chocolate. Guests can leave the event dressed head to toe in unique pieces: clothes for men and women, handbags, costume jewelry, and other accessories will be for sale. For those looking to travel the world without leaving Florence, vendors will be displaying one-of-a-kind products—Icelandic-born Bergljot Leifsdottir Mensuali is presenting handicrafts and Nordic specialties, while some vendors have accessories imported from the U.S. A wide variety of books, handmade items, Christmas decorations, and children’s toys will also be for sale. Household goods, china, a few odd vintage pieces and knick knacks will be set out on the white elephant table for bargain hunters.
Three iconic American culinary specialties will be served: fresh banana bread, decadent brownies, and festive gingerbread cookies. Visitors can also enjoy espresso, mulled wine, and other beverages at any time at the café and indulge in in American hamburgers, Tuscan soups, and panini for lunch in addition to delicious pastries for breakfast.
AILO Bazaar visitors will also be able to buy tickets for a lottery to win prizes including a cut and blow dry at a hair salon, jewelry, restaurant vouchers and fine wine.
Since 1975, AILO has shared the joy of American Christmas through its annual Bazaar while aiding local charities through event profits. To date, the organization has raised €800,000 to support 600 initiatives proposed by 450 organizations. This year, AILO Bazaar proceeds will help adults with autism through PAMAPI, to raise funds for a clothing dryer, so they can learn to manage household chores independently, in addition to supporting adolescent cognitive and vocal rehabilitation through Davide e Golia.
The American International League of Florence onlus was founded in 1975 by a group of foreign women who wanted to give back to the Florence community. The first AILO Bazaar took place in the basement of St. James Church, featuring mostly homemade items, with proceeds used to purchase a guide dog. Today, the organizers aim for diversity in the items sold at the Christmas Bazaar, and prioritize both retro appeal and affordability to maximize visitor support the charity associations.
Over the years, the Christmas Bazaar results have been remarkable: from 2000 to 2023, AILO has raised €800,000, funding 600 initiatives proposed by 450 organizations. (Evelyn Sen & Paulina Juzak)