What's On in Bologna — 2026

Street parades with giant papier-mâché heads (join the "Cavalcade of Giants" at 2pm for best photo ops). Costume contests cost €3; free street food.

Taste 200+ local dishes at the Piazza Maggiore food stalls (insider tip: try "tortellini in brodo" at 7am for the freshest batch). Free entry; dishes €3-8.

Medieval market with jousting, crafts, and wine tastings (insider tip: book "Knight's Tour" workshops 2 months ahead for €10). Entry free; workshops €5-10.

International indie film showcase at Teatro Comunale (insider tip: arrive by 6pm for free pre-screening Q&As). Tickets €8-15.

Bologna is the closest city for the Grand Prix (insider tip: take the 9am train from Bologna Centrale for crowd-free track views). Tickets €100-350.

Live performances at Palazzo d'Accursio (insider tip: the "Late Night Session" at 11pm is less crowded and free). Tickets €15-30.

Christmas market in Piazza Maggiore with artisan crafts (insider tip: buy "musetti" pastries from "Pasticceria Dall'Orto" before 4pm for discounts). Free entry; crafts €5-20.

Traditional Apulian folk dance party (Bologna edition) in the historic center (insider tip: dress in white for the "Danza dei Pazzi" group dance). Free entry; drinks €6.