In Mugello, among rolling hills and ancient villages, the tradition of the Maggiaioli lives on—folk singers who celebrate the arrival of spring with songs of good fortune. This custom has ancient roots, tied to rural rituals that welcomed May as a symbol of renewal, fertility, and abundance. 

As early as the Middle Ages, songs heralding May were sung, but the first documented evidence of Maggiaioli in Mugello dates back to the late 19th century. On the night between April 30th and May 1st, groups would walk through the countryside, bringing wishes of peace, love, and a good harvest to the families living in farmhouses.  

Each group carried a decorated branch, adorned with corn cobs, flowers, and olive twigs—symbols of prosperity. Upon arriving at a home, they would sing an opening verse, followed by traditional May songs. 

In return, they were offered gifts of food—eggs, cheese, wine—which today are more often replaced by money. If no one responded, the group would leave with a good-natured curse: “May the fox get into your chicken coop!” 

Despite the passing of time, this tradition endures, thanks to local groups who continue to bring the Songs of May to homes and town squares, keeping the memory of a genuine rural culture alive.