Rome events

Carnevale, week before Lent, children dress up and throw confetti around; nightclubs put on special parties, various venues.

Yearly February and March

Late March, 3,000 vases of azaleas adorn the Spanish Steps to mark the arrival of spring.

Annually in March

Settimana dei Beni Culturali (Week of Culture), April, free entry to all state-owned museums, public monuments and excavation sites.

Annually in April

Every year in November the Rome Film Festival will be held in the five halls of the Auditorium Parco della Musica, with screenings of films in competition, special events, exhibitions and meetings with leading figures in international cinema.

Annually in November

The season leading up to Christmas is a light-filled festive time in Rome. Lively markets, outdoor ice rinks, nativity scenes, choir performances and religious parades. Don’t miss the Piazza Navona Christmas Market. Messa di Natale (Christmas Mass) and ‘Urbi et Orbi’ Blessing is on 25 Dec at the St Peter’s Basilica.

Annually in December

Every year in March the Marathon in Rome takes place. If you’re looking for the ideal combination of athletic challenges and a few days of sightseeing, Rome Marathon is the place to go.

Annually in March

During Holy Week (Easter) Catholics from around the world make pilgrimages to Rome’s various basilicas and to hear the Pope give his address at the Vatican.

Yearly during Easter

Located in the heart of ancient Rome, just a short walk from Piazza Navona, the Courtyard of S. Ivo alla Sapienza (hallowed halls of the original 15th century university of Rome) will lend its architectural and acoustical excellence to the International Chamber Ensemble’s very popular summer concert series.

Every year in July and August

Notte Bianca, second Saturday in September, free events, museum-openings and concerts right through the night, throughout the city.

Annually, second Saturday in September