This will be a long weekend for the Italians, most of them if the weather will be good, they will decide to leave the city for a trip nearby or to start the sunbathing season in one of the closest beaches...so you might fight the city completely empty of Lucchese and full of tourists.
On June 2nd we celebrate the Republic Day, this it falls on Monday and so that's why there is the chance to have some days off. Banks, offices, post and schools will be closed, but do not worry all the restaurants and some groceries stores will be opened. If you plan to use the public transport, bus or train, remember that they run on Sunday service and you might find some traffic on the roads.
The meaning of the day goes back to 1946, when through a referendum Italy had to decide to be a monarchy or a republic, so it is a similar day to the American 4th of July.
For a few years the celebrations have been canceled, it was an ordinary working day. Then thanks to the president, Carlo Azeglio Ciampi, it has been revalued. He believed that the Italians needed to consider a little bit more their history and especially to give them a stronger patriotic feeling.
Let's say that the major event takes place in Rome which is a military parade dedicated each year to a theme. The Frecce Tricolori (literally, the Tricolour Arrows) will fly in the sky for a great aerobatic demonstration.
Recently because of the economic crisis and the spending review, the celebrations were reduced, there was a big discussion how necessary and important it is to spend so much public money for a day.
Let's see what they are going to do this year! Usually in the morning after 10, the first national channel RAI broadcasts the event.
Even here in Lucca there will be some celebrations in Cortile degli Svizzeri, that is just inside the Palazzo Ducale in Napoleon's square.
Instead if you want to do as the locals, move towards the seaside in Versilia, do not forget your sun lotion and if it gets too hot, you can go shopping at one of the best market for designers, brands and much more in the nearby:
MERCATO DEL FORTE
Forte dei Marmi, Piazza Marconi
June 1st time: 8.00 / 13.30
Here the high class ladies from all over Italy come quite often during the summer to find the best bargains
A more classical market is the Antique Market in Pietrasanta (Sunday June 1st 9-19). It is an easy trip by train from Lucca and you will discover a beautiful village which considered a contemporary Athens. Many artists come to work here in the marble and bronze workshops, just here they can find the most skillful and experienced stone workers.
