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Italy has so much to offer all year round in terms of festivals and events! From the classic events of the Venice Biennale and the film festival to orange battles, horse races and huge flower carpets, Italian culture will inspire you!
We have compiled a list of the most beautiful and traditional Italian festivals in chronological order so that you are as well prepared as possible for your trip to Italy. Have fun planning!
Italian culture comes to life at the Viareggio Carnival, which takes place from February 3 to 24 in Viareggio, Tuscany. Get carried away by the spectacular floats and take part in the festivities during Lent. Thousands of spectators gather for this spectacle, making it an unforgettable experience.
The atmosphere of the Carnival celebrations in Venice, which is celebrated in the city from February 3 to 23, will amaze you. Masked revelers in 18th-century Venetian costumes fill the streets and add to the charm of this 10-day festival. Take part in the masked balls, parades and street parties that make this italian festival an unforgettable memory.
Rome is famous for its major Easter celebrations, including the Pope’s Easter Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica and the traditional Via Crucis (Way of the Cross) procession at the Colosseum.
On Easter Sunday, Florence celebrates the Scoppio del Carro (explosion of the chariot), a tradition dating back to the 12th century in which a chariot loaded with fireworks is set off in front of the cathedral.
History comes to life at the Battle of the Oranges in Turin, Piedmont, from February 11 to 13. During the battle, teams fight with oranges to commemorate Ivrea’s resistance against tyranny. A bizarre tradition that you absolutely must experience!
The Venice Art Biennale is just the thing for all art lovers. From April 20 to November 24, artists from all over the world exhibit their works. Discover the international art exhibition amidst the timeless beauty of Venice.
On April 21st, Rome celebrates its birthday (known as Natale di Roma) with various events, including parades, historical reenactments, and concerts.
Celebrate the arrival of spring at the Italian Flower Festivals in Noto, Spello and Genzano di Roma. From May to June, these towns are transformed into a blooming backdrop with elaborate carpets of flowers adorning the streets. Incredibly beautiful!
The lemon festival, Festa del Limone, in Monterosso is taking place on Saturday, May 18, 2024. Every year, this unique event celebrates the lemons of Monterosso on the third Saturday in May.
Monterosso is the largest of the five coastal villages known as the Cinque Terre. Thanks to its fantastic beaches, beautiful reefs and crystal-clear water, this small town is one of the most popular on the Italian Riviera. Lemons are one of the most important ingredients for many specialties from Monterosso, such as in Limoncino (lemon liqueur). These lemon growers present their products and you can taste and buy many delicious products made from this tasty fruit.
Celebrated on June 2nd, Festa della Repubblica marks Italy’s Republic Day with parades, ceremonies, and cultural events, especially in Rome it is worth to visit.
This historic football game, dating back to the 16th century, takes place in Florence’s Piazza Santa Croce in June. It combines elements of soccer, rugby, and wrestling, and is accompanied by parades and festivities.
What are we doing in Naples? Eating pizza, of course. The Napoli Pizza Village Festival from June 14 to June 23, 2024 is known as the largest and most famous pizza festival in Europe. The Italian festival is attended by more than a million people and takes place directly on the beach, the Lungomare Caracciolo Napoli. Hundreds of the best pizza bakers take part and offer more than 100,000 quality pizzas.
The Medieval Festival in Monteriggioni in Tuscany takes you back to the Middle Ages. From July 7 to 16, experience the charm of castles, knights and fireworks in the picturesque setting of Monteriggioni. Experience the romance of a bygone era at this colorful and unforgettable event.
At the 99th Opera Festival from June to September, you can experience countless performances against the backdrop of an amphitheater dating back to 30 AD. This event promises an unforgettable experience, whether you are an experienced opera lover or a newcomer.
The “Palio di Siena” is undoubtedly one of the most impressive and passionate events that Italy has to offer. This traditional horse race, has two festival dates a year, on July 2 and August 16, in the historic Piazza del Campo in Siena, attracts not only locals but also thousands of tourists from all over the world. With its deep-rooted traditions, exciting atmosphere and unique charm, the “Palio di Siena” is a true cultural jewel.
The first event on July 2 is known as the “Palio di Provenzano” and honors the Madonna di Provenzano, the patron saint of Siena. The second event on August 16 is the “Palio dell’Assunta” and celebrates the Assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven. Both events are of great religious importance for the city of Siena.
Do you like jazz music? Then you can’t miss the Umbria Jazz Music Festival from July 12 to 21, 2024! The jazz festival has been held in Perugia for ten days every July since 1973 and attracts music lovers from all over the world. Past performers include the best of the genre, including BB King, and it is considered one of the most important European jazz festivals.
Experience the glitz and glamor of this popular Italian festival at the Venice Film Festival from August 28 to September 7 on the Lido. Celebrities, awards and premieres come together in one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. Are you a movie fan or just love the excitement of the red carpet? You’ve come to the right place!
In September, Rome hosts its annual White Night event, where the city stays awake all night with art exhibitions, concerts, performances, and cultural activities across various locations.
Held on the first Sunday of September, the Regata Storica is Venice’s historic regatta featuring rowing competitions and a spectacular procession of 16th-century-style boats along the Grand Canal.
We hope you enjoy visiting these Italy festivals! No matter which event you choose, it will be a cultural enrichment with lots of fun, good music and delicious Italian food!
