Special Events in Rome

Overview
Like most Europeans Italians are not deeply religious however, due to the city's undeniable religious heritage plus having the Pope in their own backyard, the Roman calendar is replete with special days of religious significance. In addition, there are many other special days of cultural significance. Be aware that special events may impact your vacation in various ways. Certain streets may be blocked off. Shops may be closed. Buisness insititutions such as banks may also be closed. When planning your vacation after checking your own calendar it's always a good idea to check the calendar of the place you're going.

January 6th
Ephiphany

Part of the Roman celebration of the birth of Jesus it ends the 12 Days of Christmas. Some wait until this night to exchange gifts. An Epiphany Fair is held in the Piazza Navona where the famous fountains of the sculptor Bernini are located.

Late February
Ash Wednesday

Catholics prepare for Lent (a period of fasting and reflection) by renouncing sins. In church ceremonies parishioners may be given the mark of the cross on the forehead using ashes.

March
Maratona della Citta di Roma (City of Rome Marathon)

If you're a serious runner, consider signing up as registration is open to runners from around the world. If you're more of a weekend runner, why not participate in the 5k Fun Run that begins immediately after the start of the marathon?

April
Easter Celebrations

Good Friday, the Pope's famous Easter Mass.and Easter Monday take center stage in Rome.

May
Antiques Fair

The first of two annual antiques fairs is held in Via dei Coronari. Even if you don't intend to buy anything it's worth strolling the street for the special lighting that is used to illluminate the street during the fair.

June
International Exhibition of New Cinema (Pesaro Film Festival)

This non-competitive festival showcases the work of filmmakers from around the world. A large variety of films are shown including shorts, documentaries and animation.

July
Spoleto Festival

Held not far from Rome, this festival in the small town of Spoleto in the Umbria region has become one of the most famous and well-respected performing arts festivals in the world.

August 15th
The Assumption of Mary

On this Catholic holy day adherents believe Mary entered heaven. Expect nearly all businesses to be closed.

Ferragosta
There's something for everyone on Agust 15th. Religious Italians can celebrate the Assumption of Mary while more secular Italians take advantage of Ferragosta, a summer holiday, and traditionally head for the beach.

September
Crafts Fair

Held in via dell'Orso near Piazza Navona.

October
Antiques Fair

The second of two annual antiques fairs is held in Via dei Coronari. Special lighting makes the street stand out during the fair.

November 1st
All Saints' Day

An important religious day in Rome expect churches to be open and businesses to be closed.

December
Christmas, St. Stephen's Day and New Year's Celebrations

There are ceremonies and observances throughout the city during this period.