The Rome IndexFestivals & public holidays
What's happening when, and which dates change how the city runs.
Major public holidays
Easter weekend and the days around it draw some of the largest crowds of the year, especially at the Vatican. August 15th (Ferragosto) sees many family-run businesses close as Romans leave the city.
Estate Romana
A summer-long program of outdoor concerts, film screenings and events across the city, roughly June through September — worth checking the current program once you have travel dates.
Christmas season
Piazza Navona hosts a Christmas market through December and early January, and major churches put up nativity displays worth a look even for non-religious visitors.