The Best Cultural and Art Events in Italy This October – Beyond the Plate

October 2025 in Italy is about more than just food; it’s a dynamic month packed with a rich and diverse calendar of cultural events that offer a deeper look into both contemporary and traditional Italian life. From world-class art exhibitions to major film and comic conventions, the country comes alive with a variety of celebrations.

 

Art and Major Exhibitions

Art lovers will find a wealth of opportunities in Italy’s major cities.

Milan: The city becomes a hub for art in autumn 2025. Palazzo Reale is hosting two major retrospectives: one dedicated to the visionary surrealist Leonora Carrington and another to Man Ray, a key figure of 20th-century modernism. The MUDEC museum will showcase an exhibition on M.C. Escher, exploring his iconic illusions through immersive multimedia installations.

Rome: From October 20-26, Rome hosts a citywide celebration of contemporary art called Rome Art Week. Galleries, cultural spaces, and artists’ studios open their doors with free exhibitions, talks, and guided visits.

Film, Comics, and Games

Italy hosts several internationally recognized events for fans of popular culture.

Lucca Comic and Games: Held in the last week of October, this is the largest convention of its kind in Europe and the second-largest in the world, implying immense crowds.

Rome Film Festival (Festa del Cinema di Roma): Taking place from October 15-26, this is one of the city’s most important cultural events. The festival brings international premieres, red-carpet screenings, and meetings with filmmakers to venues across Rome.

Romics in Rome: This international exhibition dedicated to comics, animation, and games takes place from October 2-5. The four-day event features exhibitions, workshops, and meetings with industry professionals.

Historical, Traditional, and Other Events

The month also offers a glimpse into Italy’s rich history and local customs.

Medieval Days and Falconry Feast: In Melfi, Basilicata, this historical reenactment takes place from October 25-27. The event transforms the town into a medieval village with a historical parade featuring Emperor Frederick II and falconers.

Antique and Vintage Markets: Throughout the month, you can find a variety of markets. Piazzola Sul Brenta, just north of Padua, hosts Italy’s biggest antique market on the last Sunday of every month. The Lugo Vintage Festival is also usually held in October.

Sporting and Religious Observances

October also features prominent sporting events and significant religious observances.

Barcolana Regatta in Trieste: Held annually on October 13, this is one of the largest sailing races in the world, highlighting Italy’s maritime heritage.

Feast of St. Francis of Assisi: Celebrated nationwide on October 4, this day honors the patron saint of Italy. The celebration is particularly profound in his hometown of Assisi, where children bring their pets to be blessed.

Jubilee Events in Rome (2025): For the Jubilee year, the Pope will hold special Papal audiences in St. Peter’s Square on October 4 and 25.

 

 

Image credits:
Featured Image by Dennis Jarvis

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