Major Events & Festivals in Genoa, Liguria, Italy

1. Palio del Mare

Annual maritime race held in August, featuring historic boats and traditional costumes.

Maritime Race: Unique chance to witness a historical maritime competition
Traditional Costumes: Experience the rich Genoese culture through traditional attire
Historic Boats: See the beautifully restored boats from past centuries

August event with live music, art installations, and performances, focusing on the theme of death.

Thematic Focus: Unusual event exploring themes of life and death
Live Performances: Enjoy diverse live music and art performances
Art Installations: View thought-provoking art installations related to the theme

Annual Carnival in January with parades, masks, and music.

Carnival Celebration: Participate in the age-old tradition of a Genoese carnival
Masks and Costumes: Witness intricate masks and costumes crafted for the event
Parades: Experience lively parades filled with music and joy

Local food festivals celebrating traditional Genoese dishes such as pesto and focaccia.

Traditional Foods: Taste authentic Genoese dishes like pesto and focaccia
Local Produce: Sample fresh, locally sourced ingredients
Cultural Exchange: Engage with local communities and learn about their culinary traditions

Boat race held in July, featuring historic boats sailing along the old harbor.

Historic Boats: See the stunningly restored boats from the past
Old Harbor: Race through one of Genoa's most historic sites
Community Spirit: Experience the excitement and camaraderie of the competition

June music festival featuring a variety of genres, including jazz, rock, pop, and electronic.

Variety of Genres: Enjoy a wide range of musical styles in one event
Local Artists: Discover emerging Italian artists alongside international acts
Outdoor Venues: Take in the beautiful Genoese scenery while listening to live music

January event where elderly participants throw candied fruit from balconies.

Traditional Custom: Witness a unique Genoese custom going back centuries
Candied Fruit: Participate in the fun by catching candied fruit from balconies
Community Bonding: Experience the strong sense of community in Genoa

Christmas light festival featuring illuminated structures and art installations.

Illuminated Structures: Marvel at stunning, creatively designed light displays
Art Installations: Discover unique and thought-provoking installations
Festive Atmosphere: Enjoy the joyous, holiday spirit of Genoa during this event

Annual poetry festival in October, featuring readings, workshops, and discussions.

Spring event celebrating the violet flower and featuring crafts, food, and music.

Violet Celebration: Celebrate the beautiful violet flower in Genoa
Crafts and Food: Participate in workshops or sample traditional violet-infused dishes
Music Performances: Enjoy live music performances inspired by the event's theme

International film festival in September, featuring screenings, workshops, and panel discussions.

Screenings of New Releases: Watch the latest releases from both established and emerging filmmakers
Workshops: Learn about various aspects of filmmaking in workshops
Panel Discussions: Gain insights from film industry professionals during panel discussions

July food festival showcasing the region's gastronomy with tastings and cooking classes.

Regional Cuisine: Discover the diverse culinary traditions of Liguria
Tastings and Cooking Classes: Sample local delicacies and learn how to prepare them
Cultural Exchange: Engage with locals and fellow travelers in food-related activities

Maritime festival held in July, featuring boat exhibitions, seafood tastings, and live music.

Boat Exhibitions: Explore a variety of boats and marine-related products
Seafood Tastings: Sample delicious, fresh seafood from the region
Live Music Performances: Enjoy live music performances throughout the festival

Comic convention in May featuring artists, workshops, and cosplay events.

Artist Meet-and-Greets: Meet renowned comic book artists and creators
Workshops: Participate in workshops to learn about various aspects of comics
Cosplay Events: Join fellow fans in costume and celebrate your favorite characters

Annual antique machinery festival showcasing restored vintage vehicles.

Vintage Vehicles: See beautifully restored antique cars, motorcycles, and more
Restoration Workshops: Learn about the process of restoring vintage machinery
Community Spirit: Experience the passion and camaraderie among antique vehicle enthusiasts