Upcoming Events in Rome – March and April 2026

Spring is one of the best times of year to visit Rome. As winter fades and the weather begins to warm, the city comes alive with festivals, religious celebrations, sporting events, and cultural performances. March and April are particularly lively months in the Eternal City, offering a mix of traditional Roman events and international attractions.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, planning around these events can make your trip even more memorable. Here are some of the most notable upcoming events in Rome during March and April.

Rome Marathon (Maratona di Roma)

One of the biggest sporting events of the spring calendar is the Rome Marathon, typically held in mid-March. This internationally recognised race attracts tens of thousands of runners from around the world.

The course winds through some of the most iconic parts of the city. Participants run past landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, Piazza Venezia, St Peter’s Basilica and along the banks of the Tiber. Even if you’re not running, the marathon is a great event to experience as a spectator. The streets are filled with music, cheering crowds and a festive atmosphere.

A shorter fun run known as the Roma Fun Run also takes place during the same weekend, allowing families and casual runners to participate in the celebration.

St Patrick’s Festival Rome

Rome may be famous for its Italian traditions, but the city also embraces international celebrations. Around 17 March, many bars and cultural venues host St Patrick’s Day events.

Irish pubs around areas such as Trastevere and the city centre organise live music, themed food, and special events throughout the weekend. While it may not be Dublin, the celebrations still draw a lively international crowd and provide a fun night out during a spring visit to the city.

Roma Jazz Festival Spring Performances

While the main Roma Jazz Festival takes place later in the year, smaller jazz performances and concert series often run throughout early spring. These shows are typically held in venues like Casa del Jazz or cultural spaces across the city.

Spring concerts attract both local musicians and international performers, making it a good opportunity for music lovers to experience Rome’s vibrant jazz scene in a more intimate setting.

Easter in Rome

Easter is one of the most significant times of year in Rome, particularly because of the city’s connection to the Vatican. Depending on the calendar year, Easter often falls in late March or early April.

Visitors can witness major religious ceremonies and celebrations across the city. The most famous events take place in Vatican City, including the Papal Easter Mass in St Peter’s Square, which draws thousands of visitors and pilgrims.

Another notable tradition is the Via Crucis (Stations of the Cross) procession held at the Colosseum on Good Friday. The ceremony, led by the Pope, transforms one of Rome’s most famous landmarks into a powerful and symbolic setting.

Even outside of the religious ceremonies, the Easter period brings a festive atmosphere to Rome. Bakeries fill their windows with traditional treats such as colomba cakes, and markets and restaurants prepare seasonal dishes.

Settimana della Cultura (Cultural Heritage Events)

Spring also marks the return of many cultural initiatives celebrating Italy’s heritage. Throughout March and April, museums, galleries and historical sites often host special exhibitions, lectures and open days.

Some events allow visitors to access normally restricted areas or attend guided tours led by historians and archaeologists. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore lesser-known corners of Rome’s cultural landscape beyond the major attractions.

Rome Birthday Celebrations – Natale di Roma

Every year on 21 April, Rome celebrates its legendary founding with the Natale di Roma festival. According to tradition, the city was founded in 753 BC by Romulus.

The celebrations include historical reenactments, parades, and cultural performances. Groups dressed in Roman armour and costumes recreate scenes from ancient history around areas like the Circus Maximus and the Roman Forum.

The atmosphere is festive and family-friendly, making it a fascinating event for visitors interested in the city’s ancient past.

Primavera at the Villa Borghese Gardens

As temperatures rise in April, Rome’s parks begin to bloom with spring colours. Villa Borghese becomes a focal point for outdoor concerts, art events and seasonal markets.

Visitors can rent bicycles, enjoy picnics overlooking the city, or attend cultural activities taking place in and around the gardens. The nearby Borghese Gallery also often hosts seasonal exhibitions during this period.

Football Matches at Stadio Olimpico

For sports fans, March and April are exciting months in Rome’s football calendar. Both AS Roma and Lazio play home matches at the Stadio Olimpico during this time.

Experiencing a football match in Rome can be an unforgettable cultural event. The energy of the crowds, the chants, and the intense rivalry between the clubs create an atmosphere unlike almost anywhere else in Europe.

Even if you’re not a dedicated football fan, attending a match can give you a unique glimpse into local Roman culture.

Enjoy Rome Hands-Free During Busy Events

Events and festivals are a fantastic way to experience Rome, but they also mean larger crowds, longer queues and busy public transport. Carrying luggage around during these times can quickly become inconvenient.

If you arrive early for an event or have time to explore before a late departure, using luggage storage can make your day far easier. With luggage safely stored nearby, you can move around the city comfortably, explore historic streets, and enjoy events without worrying about bags.

Stasher offers luggage storage locations across Rome near major transport hubs and attractions, making it easy to explore the city hands-free while attending spring events.