25th April is a national holiday in Italy, commemorating the liberation of the country from the Nazis after World War II in 1945.

In Livorno the day is usually marked by a solemn ceremony in Piazza della Vittoria (monument to the fallen) and in Via Ernesto Rossi (Partisan plaque) during which wreaths of laurel are laid at these two reminders of those who died for their country during the war.

Italian Navy Sailing Team at the 2008 TANThis maritime theme begins in April with the sailing regatta known as the Trofeo Accademia Navale e Città di Livorno  (‘Naval Academy and City of Livorno Sailing Trophy’). This sailing competition began in 1981 to celebrate the Naval Academy’s 100th anniversary. The regatta lasts for a week and teams from all over the world take part in the various races. A number of related events also take place in the town, especially in the port area, during that week (see the Livorno Now What’s On calendar for specific dates and events).