Natale di Roma
21 April
Translating as the ‘birth of Rome’, this citywide party takes place each 21 April (the date of its founding in 753BC), with street parades, firework displays, live bands, historical re-enactments and other events. If you’re in Rome, you’ll certainly know about it.
Roma Incontra il Mondo
June-August
This music festival is as notable for its stunning setting – the stage is situated beside a lake in Villa Ada park – as it is for its often stellar line-up, drawing established world music artists to Rome from across the globe.
Gay Village
June-September
Held for the first time in 2002, this 10-week extravaganza features everything from dance nights and cinema festivals to literature events and drag queen performances. It takes place each summer at the Esposizione Universale Roma (almost always referred to as EUR).
RomaEuropa
September-November
An acclaimed gathering of contemporary dancers, entertainers and musicians, this performing arts festival is one of the city’s most inventive annual events, drawing a good mix of local and international acts. Various venues are used.