Experience more from your vacation by planning a little ahead, we’ve gathered a few of Italy’s most exciting festivals, events and happening locations over the next two months. If you’re interested in art, music, food or cars we certainly have something on this list for you, as well as a few festive season treats.
Rome
Monet special Exhibit | Now until 28th January 2018
Each year Rome hosts an exhibition of Monet pieces, but this year it is bigger and better than any before. Doors opened on the 19 October to over 60 pieces of Monet’s work on show at the Complesso del Vittoriano. You can follow the evolution of Monet’s art all the way to the height of his career as the father of Impressionism. You’ll see his most loved paintings from The Waterlilies in Giverny to his lesser known gems like The Roses all the way through to the famous Locomotive.
Nativity Scenes | November-January
It’s said that Saint Francis of Assisi created the first nativity scene in 1223, a presepi in Italian, and since then the tradition has been maintained around the world. As the western tradition of Christmas trees began to gain popularity in Italy, the Italian government decided to remind people of their own Christmas traditions. Head down to the 100 Presepi Exhibition to see all the different takes on the Nativity throughout the centuries. You could also walk around Rome and see one in almost every shop, church, and square, the life-size nativity at St. Peter's Square in the Vatican is a must see!
Roma Europa Festival | Now until the 2nd December
Running until the 2nd of December the Roma Europa Festival is a cultural institution, bringing art, theatre, dance and music from all around Europe to the Italian stage. Venues around Rome host various performances from classical to modern music and a wide range of theatrical performances. The family-friendly festival will bring over 300 artists from 32 countries to 24 different venues to explore the festival's theme of “Where are we now?”
Go ice skating and bask in the Christmas lights
Nothing say’s Christmas like ice skating and fairy lights! All around the world, the idea of gliding along the ice goes hand in hand with the festive season, even in countries where the festive season falls in the middle of Summer. In Rome head on over to the Castel Sant’Angelo for a little ice skating in front of one of the most iconic Roman buildings. Along the way stroll down the Via del Corso or the Via Veneto to feel the festive atmosphere.
Tuscany and Florence
San Miniato Truffle Fair | Last 3 weekends in November
If you’ve ever wanted to try Italy’s famous white truffle look no further. In the small medieval town of San Miniato in the Pisa Province of Tuscany, you’ll find the San Miniato Truffle Fair. This quaint town comes to life as life as the fair’s activities kick into full swing. Live entertainment, craft markets, and food stands swing into full effect during the festival and local restaurant base their menu’s around the guest of honor, Truffles.
Christmas Markets in Florence | 28th November- 17th December
The festive season is a magical time of the year, all the twinkling lights, the smell of treats in the air and all the markets that pop up around the city. Florence is no exception to the rule. The biggest Christmas marketing in Florence is located in Piazza Santa Croce, it draws on the German Tradition of Markets with small wooden stalls stocked with crafts and food, decorations and furniture.
Fortezza da Basso Antiques Fair | 3rd weekend of December (16 December)
If you’re a fan of pottering around shops trying to find that one hidden gem within bundles of rubbish then antique fairs are for you, and boy is Italy a treat. With centuries of history, antique shops here are on another level of awesome. If you are looking for something special in Florence, head to the Fortezza da Basso antiques fair. With 120 antique dealers from all over Italy, you are bound to find some really special treasures.
The Firenze Winter Park in Obihall | Now until 26th February
If you're looking for a little ice skating this festive season head down to the Parterre area near Piazza della Libertà, but if you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, take a few hours to visit the Firenze Winter Park. Complete with ice skating, snow tubing and a skiing hill you’re bound to have a great time. Make a day of it and stick around for food, with stands showing off the best of Tuscan cuisine.
Rally della Fettunta | 2nd & 3rd December
Also known as the Chianti Race, the Rally della Fettunta is a traditional car race in a pretty unusual setting. You’ll find rally cars speeding down the dainty and charming roads of Chianti, the most famous wine region in Tuscany. Following the olive harvest, the rally marks the end of the official rally season in Italy and coincides with the presentation of the new season’s olive oil. Between the spectacular scenery, delicious cuisine and this exciting rally, you’ll have plenty to explore while in Chianti.
Venice
La Biennale di Venezia International Art Exhibition | Open to the 26th November
The 2017 exhibition is the 57th International Art Exhibition at La Biennale di Venezia and showcases the works of 120 artists from around the world. Started in 1895, the festival is the biggest and oldest art festival in the world. The exhibition has welcomed collaborations between artists, architects, designers, musicians and refugees for this year’s show which will undoubtedly turn the whole of Venice into its showroom. Take a look at one of the artist teaser video’s and you’ll see a little of what’s in store this year.
Visit the Island of Murano
During Christmas, the Venetian island of Murano turns into a festive wonderland. What happens when an island of world-class glassmakers decides to get festive? A full-size glass Christmas tree. Yes, glass Christmas tree. Not to mention the glass decorations and incredible Christmas lights that line the already colorful island. Head over for a traditional dinner and stroll about the island to wonder at the festivities.
Orvieto
Umbria Jazz Festival | 28th December- 1st January
The Umbria Jazz Festival is one of the most important music festivals in Italy. A celebration of all things jazz, the Umbria Jazz Festival has been running since 1973 attracting musicians like Natalie Cole, Chet Baker, B.B King and Miriam Makeba to name a few. This year is no different, hundreds of people will travel to this little region of Italy to celebrate Jazz. This year with headliners like Chord Four, Little Freddie King Blue Band and Jazzmeia Horn its bound to live up to expectations.
