CULTURAL EVENTS

Venice Film Festival Venice (Veneto), 28 August – 7 September 2024

Prepare for an exhilarating cultural extravaganza as the Venice Film Festival returns to enchant the city. From 28th August to 7th September 2024, Venice will transform into a bustling hub of cinematic brilliance. Expect thousands of visitors, a myriad of screenings, and the presence of numerous celebrities gracing the picturesque Lido of Venice, nestled within the enchanting Venice Lagoon. Get ready for ten days filled with captivating films, vibrant atmosphere and dazzling parties!

 

The Festival of the Mind - Festival della Mente Sarzana (Liguria), 30 August- 1 September 2024

Unleash your creativity and explore the depths of the human mind at the Festival della Mente, the first European festival dedicated to creativity and thought processes. From 30th August to 1st September 2024, Sarzana will host a captivating array of events, lectures, performances and workshops. Join Italian and international speakers, including writers, artists, musicians, scientists and philosophers, as they delve into the mysteries of the human mind. Don't miss this unique opportunity for cultural exchange and exploration in the beautiful setting of Liguria.

 

Festival Letteratura Mantua (Lombardy), 4 - 8 September 2024

Immerse yourself in the world of literature at the renowned Festival Letteratura in the historic World Heritage City of Mantua. From 4th to 8th September 2024, Mantua will welcome world-famous writers, poets, musicians and scientists from around the globe. Engage in readings, performances, discussions and concerts and revel in the enchanting and unforgettable festive ambiance.

 

SPORT

Monza Motor Grand Prix Monza, 30 August – 1 September 2024
Rev your engines for the exhilarating Monza Motor Grand Prix, a highlight on the Formula One calendar. From 30th August to 1st September 2024, Monza Circuit will pulsate with the adrenaline-fueled action of fast cars and fierce competition. Experience the essence of Formula One racing at one of the most iconic circuits in the world. Join fellow enthusiasts for an unmissable event that promises thrills and excitement for all.

Barcolana – Sail Race Trieste, 4 - 13 October 2024

Set sail for adventure at the legendary Barcolana Sail Race, an unparalleled event on the international sailing scene. From 4th to 13th October 2024, Trieste will host skilled sailors and sailing enthusiasts from around the globe for a spectacle like no other. Witness the breathtaking sight of over 2,000 sails converging in the Gulf of Trieste, as boats of all sizes compete side by side. Experience the thrill of Europe's largest sailing event and marvel at the impressive display of maritime skill and camaraderie.

MUSIC EVENTS

Ravenna Festival, Ravenna, 10 May – 8 July 2024
The city of Ravenna, once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, is hosting a summer music festival in its many theatres and churches. The Byzantine basilicas, cloisters and piazzas provide a superb backdrop combining art and music. The Ravenna Festival attracts the finest artists and opera companies in the world and this years' edition will include opera and classical music as well as dance, jazz, films and exhibitions.

Caracalla – Rome Opera Summer Festival, Rome, 3 June – 3 August 2024
The openair setting of the majestic Caracalla's Thermal Baths offer a unique backdrop to one of the best loved summer opera festivals in Italy. This year's programme includes Puccini's Tosca and Turandot, various concerts and a ballet gala by acclaimed dancer Roberto Bolle.

Arena Di Verona, Verona, 7 June – 7 September 2024
The International Opera Festival presents a rich calendar of events. The operas to be performed this year include Aida, Carmen, Il Barbiere di Siviglia, La Traviata, Tosca, La Boheme, Carmina Burana and a Gala with acclaimed ballet star Roberto Bolle and one with Placido Domingo. Once again, Arena di Verona welcomes artists and the general public in its magnificent setting.

Festival Dei Due Mondi, Spoleto, 28 June – 14 July 2024
This international art, culture and music festival is regarded as one of the most important cultural events in Italy. Its program distinguishes itself for outstanding original, innovative and exclusive performances.

Sued-Tirol Jazz Festival Alto Adige, South Tyrol, 28 June – 7 July 2024
One of the most important music festivals Europe-wide is taking place over eight days with the finest jazz music performed by internationally acclaimed musicians in various venues in four of South Tyrol major towns. It provides variety in its concerts, comprising a mixture of the traditional and modern music and it will take place in the refined atmosphere of South Tyrol's castles and manor houses, as well as in towns and squares in the balmy summer air.

Puccini Festival, Torre del Lago, 3 July – 7 September 2024
Puccini Festival was created by Giacomo Puccini himself in 1930 and since then, it has been continually held from mid-July to mid-September. The festival takes place in the open-air theatre of Torre Del Lago (Tuscany), located a few steps from “Villa Mausoleum”, the house where Puccini lived and worked - an amazing venue to enjoy the masterpieces of one of the most outstanding and esteemed Italian artists worldwide. Operas on show this year include Tosca, Turandot, La Boheme, Madama Butterfly and Manon Lescaut to celebrate the 100th centenary of Puccini's death.

Andrea Bocelli Recital – Teatro Del Silenzio, Tuscany, 15, 17, 19 July 2024
For his 30th anniversary, Andrea Bocelli will sing at the open-air Teatro del Silenzio (Theatre of Silence) in Lajatico, Tuscany. The “Teatro del Silenzio” is a natural amphitheatre created in the splendid setting of the hills of Lajatico – perfect for lovers of good music and opera.

 

 

Clazz International Festival of Classical Music and Jazz, Arcidosso, Mount Amiata in Tuscany, 15 July – 29 July 2024
The beautiful medieval village of Arcidosso on Mount Amiata in Tuscany hosts this unique and new festival which combines classical music and jazz in the heart of Tuscany. Concerts will take place in the village framed by its castle and old quarter, alongside master classes with internationally renowned music professors and students from all over the world.

Rossini Opera Festival, Pesaro, 15 July – 23 August 2024
Known as one of the most important opera events in Italy and in the world, Rossini Opera festival is dedicated to Goacchino Rossini, the famous Italian artist who was born in the city of Pesaro. This year's edition of the festival will put on show Ermione, Il viaggio a Reims, Bianca a Falliero and Il Barbiere di Siviglia.

Sferisterio Opera Festival, Macerata, 19 July – 11 August 2024
The success of the Macerata Opera Festival has been largely due to the uniqueness of the Sferisterio's stage space. Designed in 1823 by architect Ireneo Aleandri, the theatre earned its name and its half-circumference shaped plan from the game that was played within its walls: the “Armband Ball” or “Pallone col bracciale”. This year this beautiful open-air theatre will once again host performances of timeless stories. Operas on show include Norma, Turandot and La Boheme.

Summer Jamboree, Senigallia (Marche), 27 July – 4 August 2024
This music Festival is dedicated to the music and culture in America in the 40s and 50s with live concerts of DJ set swing, rock'n'roll, jive, doo-wop, rhythm 'n' blues, hill-billy western swing. There will also be stands as the festival selling juke boxes, hats, guitars, vinyl's, CDs and other objects of that era. There will also be a 40s and 50s classic car show.

La Notte Della Taranta, Salento (Puglia) throughout May and Melpigano (Puglia) 24 August
La Notte della Taranta is dedicated to traditional music and welcomes 20,000 people from all over the world. Every year the festival arranges a set of concerts around the Municipalities of Grecìa Salentina (one per village) ending at Melpignano, the village where everything started 15 years ago, with the famous ''Concertone''.

Sound of the Dolomites, Trentino Region, 28 August – 29 September 2024
Sounds of the Dolomites is a trek along the paths of nature and art towards a horizon that opens to the vibrations and echoes of all the music in the world. Everyone sets off together, from music and mountain lovers, musicians and the general public. The walk continues step by step towards the summit. The concert at the end of the walk, is an encounter with art and nature. The musician carries his instrument on his shoulder, sits on the grass or rocks and plays in the natural environment.

 

FOOD AND WINE EVENTS

Festival Del Brodetto and Fish Soup, Fano (Marche), 30 May – 2 June 2024
For fish lovers, the festival of “Brodetto” and fish soups is a not-to-be-missed event. There is an "International Competition of Brodetto”, where well- known chefs from all over Italy and abroad will discuss culinary themes and in particular special recipes for fish stews and soups.

 

 

Strawberry Festival, Nemi (Lazio) 1 – 2 June 2024
Nemi is a quaint medieval town of the Castelli Romani, 20km south of Rome perched on a hill overlooking the small volcanic lake of Nemi. It is famous for its wild strawberries that are small, sweet and with a distinctive flavour. Every year since 1922, Nemi hosts the Sagra della Fragola (strawberry festival) where women dressed in the typical rustic costume sell and offer visitors the precious fruit, with fresh cream or ice cream, in pancakes, in milkshakes and liqueurs and you can also buy a piece of jewellery in the form of a strawberry pendant, made by hand by the local goldsmiths.

Festa Artusiana – Artusi's Celebration, Forlimpopoli/Forli-Cesena, 22 – 30 June 2024
On the second-last Saturday of June, for nine consecutive days, visitors can try new food in Forlimpopoli – the hometown of 'the father of Italian cuisine'. The festival features workshops, tastings and talks on food culture. However, the festival is not just about eating – it is also a time to reflect upon the cultural, social and economic role of food in the company of scholars, enthusiasts and academics.

Stragusto Street Food Festival, Trapani (Sicily), 24 – 28 July 2024
This festival shines a spotlight on the older markets through flavours, smells and colours each year. Celebrating the street food of the Mediterranean through Panelle, Arancine, Sfincioni, Rascadura, Focacce, Panini cà Meusa, Dolci, typical Trapanese food and more.

Mangialonga Walking and Food in Piedmont, La Morra (Langhe area), 25 August 2024
Mangialonga is a non-competitive walk in the wonderful hills and vineyards of La Morra, in the renowned wine producing area of the Langhe in Piedmont. The 4km trail crosses beautiful landscapes which combine with local culinary delicacies to make it a unique event with people coming from all over the world.

Parma Ham Festival, Parma, Langhirano, 6 – 8 September 2024
Each year, Festival del Prosciutto di Parma is held and brings over 100,000 visitors who can indulge in more than 1,000 different types of ham. Visitors can also visit the ham factories, offering a unique chance to discover that 10 million Parma Ham's are produced each year by 164 companies in the Parma Ham Consortium.

Chili Pepper Festival, Diamante (Calabria), 11 – 15 September 2024
The annual “Peperoncino Festival” is held in the town of Diamante in Calabria. The festival has a large market where local food products are made with chili pepper which can be bought, there is also an eating contest.

Cous Cous Fest, San Vito lo Capo (Sicily), 20 – 29 September 2024
San Vito lo Capo, is a stunning seaside location in western Sicily and has been hosting this event since 1998. Chefs from all over Sicily, Italy and other countries on the Mediterranean come to San Vito to participate to the competition that celebrates the best and most creative Cous Cous dishes. Every evening there is a show with music, dance and tastings of delicious Cous Cous.

Salone Del Gusto and Terra Madre, Turin, 26 – 30 September 2024
This is an important international event dedicated to food and gastronomy. There is a market with exhibitors from five continents showcasing the wealth and diversity of global cuisine, street food the prestigious Enoteca, conferences discussing issues around food production and more.

 

 

ENDS