Italy in April 2025: Festival & Holiday Calendar
Experience Italy in April 2025 – from Easter celebrations to Liberation Day festivities, as spring fully embraces the country.
Below is a curated guide to Italy’s most notable April celebrations, which mark spring’s peak with profound cultural and historical traditions.
Italy in April 2025: Major Holidays and Events
Easter and Liberation Day are Italy’s most significant April 2025 celebrations. Want the whole picture? Browse our day-by-day calendar for all Italian holidays and events.
April 18-21: Easter Weekend in Italy
Easter (Pasqua) represents Italy’s most significant religious celebration, combining profound spiritual traditions with cultural festivities across the country.
Key Celebrations
Good Friday (Venerdì Santo): Cities host solemn processions, the most famous of which is Rome’s Via Crucis at the Colosseum, led by the Pope. Thousands gather with candles as the Pontiff leads the Stations of the Cross.
Easter Sunday (Pasqua): Morning mass fills churches nationwide, with the Pope’s Easter Mass in St. Peter’s Square drawing massive crowds. Florence celebrates with the Scoppio del Carro, where a decorated cart explodes with fireworks in front of the Duomo.
Easter Monday (Pasquetta): Italians traditionally head outdoors for picnics and excursions. Parks, countryside venues, and historic sites fill with families and friends sharing traditional foods.
Suggested Read: Easter in Italy: Traditions, Feasts & Festivities
Cultural Impact
Cities come alive with unique traditions:
- Florence: Florence’s Scoppio del Carro dates to the First Crusade, when Pazzino de’ Pazzi brought back three flints from Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulchre. These flints still ignite the “Colombina” (mechanical dove) that sparks the cart’s Easter Sunday fireworks at the Duomo.
- Enna, Sicily: 2,000 hooded confetti (confreres) lead one of Italy’s most atmospheric Easter processions, carrying ancient statues through medieval streets in a centuries-old tradition.
- Trapani: Trapani’s Processione dei Misteri runs for 24 continuous hours. It features life-sized wooden statues depicting the Passion of Christ carried through the city by teams of local workers.
Practical Information
- Book accommodations months in advance
- Most businesses close on Easter Sunday and Monday
- Major tourist sites remain open, but expect crowds
Suggested Read: 10 Fascinating Facts About Vatican City
April 25: Festa della Liberazione (Liberation Day)
Italy takes a heartfelt pause on this day to remember its liberation from Nazi Germany and the fascist regime during World War II. This is one of the most significant events in Italy in April.
How Italy Honors the Day
In Rome: It’s customary for the Italian president to visit the Mausoleo delle Fosse Ardeatine (Ardeatine Caves mausoleum). This spot is not just another landmark; 335 Italians tragically lost their lives to Nazi atrocities in 1944.
Special Events Across Towns: Expect lively gatherings, whether it’s a tiny village or a bustling city. Some go traditional with marching bands, while others host political rallies or concerts. Many communities spice things up with fairs or food festivals. It’s a great way to blend history with local culture.
Honoring the Heroes: A quieter but equally important tradition is visiting the gravesites of the partisans. These brave souls laid down their lives for Italy’s freedom, and visiting them is the nation’s way of saying, “We remember.”
History Comes Alive
If you’re a history buff, this is your day. Many key World War II sites and museums open their doors to the public, often without charging an entry fee.
- Montecassino Abbey: A significant World War II battleground, beautifully restored after almost being lost to bombings.
- Museo Storico della Liberazione: This museum offers an intimate look into the Italian resistance movement in Rome.
- Free Museum Entry: Yes, you read that right! Museums and archaeological sites like the Colosseum, Pompeii, and the Uffizi usually welcome visitors for free.
Embarking to Italy in April? Equip yourself with crucial weather knowledge. Dive into our guide: Weather in Italy in April.
April 2025 in Italy: Day-by-Day Guide
April 1
- April Fool’s Day (Pesce d’Aprile): Italy’s playful version of pranking day where “Pesce d’Aprile” (April’s Fish) jokes and Italians sense of humor reign supreme.
- Rediscovery of Pompeii by Archaeologists (1748), a window into ancient civilization.
April 2
- Celebrating the Birth of Giacomo Casanova (1725), a legendary lover and adventurer.
- International Children’s Book Day: Honoring the magic of stories, many inspired by Italy’s rich literary traditions.
Suggested Read: 10 Best Italian Songs for Kids: Fun Learning on YouTube
April 3
- Bologna Children’s Book Fair: Italy’s epicenter for book trends, connecting with illustrators, authors, and the publishing world—a notable event in Italy during April.
- Inaugural Publication of La Gazzetta dello Sport (1896), Italy’s premier sports news outlet.
- World Party Day: As Italians are no strangers to “la dolce vita,” this day harmonizes with their love for joyous celebrations.
Suggested Read: Best Party Cities in Italy: Top Nightlife Hotspots Destinations
April 4
- International Carrot Day: A nod to Italy’s flavorful carrot-infused dishes that grace many a table.
- Celebrating the Birth of Emperor Caracalla (188), known for his tyrannical reign.
April 6
- Milano Marathon: Lace up for Milan’s premier marathon, a highlight among Italy’s elite running competitions.
- Vinitaly in Verona (April 6-9): A paramount exhibition spotlighting the best wines for Italian food, drawing a significant international audience to savor Italy’s finest vintages.
- Remembering the Death of Raphael (1520), a maestro of the Renaissance era.
- L’Aquila Earthquake Remembrance (2009), honoring a community’s resilience.
April 7
- World Health Day: Aligning with Italy’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens and its renowned Mediterranean diet.
April 8
- Crowning of Petrarch as Poet Laureate in Rome (1341), a milestone in literary history.
- Remembering the Death of Lorenzo de’ Medici (1492), a pillar of the Florentine Renaissance.
April 10
- Siblings Day (Celebrated in the US): This holiday resonates with Italy’s family-centric culture, which values close familial bonds.
April 11
- The First Printed Edition of Dante Alighieri‘s Divine Comedy (1472), a groundbreaking literary event.
- Remembering the Death of Primo Levi (1987), a solemn remembrance of a thoughtful writer.
- Pet Day (Celebrated in the US): Reflecting the Italian love for their “amici a quattro zampe” (four-legged friends).
April 12
- Celebrating the Birth of Architect Antonio da Sangallo (1484), the mastermind behind Saint Peter’s Basilica.
- Galileo’s Heresy Accusation (1633), a collision of science and religion.
April 13
- Celebrating the Birth of Catherine de’ Medici (1519), a woman of influence and power.
- Celebrating the Birth of Italian Inventor Antonio Meucci (1808), a beacon of innovation.
- International Plant Appreciation Day: This day reflects Italy’s reverence for nature, lush gardens, and the rise of Italian vegan cookbooks celebrating plant-based cuisine.
April 14
- Remembering the Death of Gianni Rodari (1983), the cherished children’s book author.
- International Moment of Laughter Day: Embracing Italy’s festive spirit, love for funny Italian jokes, and the lighter side of life.
April 15
- Celebrating Leonardo da Vinci’s Birthday (1452), a Renaissance genius.
- Remembering the Death of Architect Filippo Brunelleschi (1446), the creator of Florence’s iconic dome.
- Remembering the Death of Comedian Totò (1967), a laughter legend.
- World Art Day: Celebrating the profound artistic legacy of Italy, from the Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary art marvels.
April 17
- Demolition of Rome’s Jewish Ghetto Wall (1848), a step towards equality.
April 18
- Good Friday: Across Italy, solemn processions mark Venerdì Santo, with Rome’s Via Crucis at the Colosseum being the most significant.
- International Day for Monuments and Sites: Celebrating Italy’s rich history, reflected in its countless UNESCO heritage sites and monuments.
Suggested Read: 7 UNESCO Sites in Sicily: Must-See World Heritage Gems
April 19
- Remembering the Death of Painter Paolo Veronese (1588), a master of the Renaissance.
- Remembering the Death of Canaletto (1768), Venice’s picturesque chronicler.
- Husband Appreciation Day (Celebrated in the US): In Italy, where family is paramount, Italian men, as devoted husbands, hold a cherished place at the heart of the home.
- Garlic Day (Celebrated in the US): A nod to the beloved ingredient in many classic Italian dishes.
April 20
- Easter Sunday: Churches nationwide celebrate Pasqua with morning mass, while Florence marks the day with Scoppio del Carro (explosion of the cart) in front of the Duomo.
- Establishment of La Sapienza University in Rome (1303), a beacon of education and knowledge.
April 21
- Easter Monday: Following Easter Sunday, Italy revels in “Pasquetta,” a day of picnics and gatherings.
- Foundation of Rome by Romulus (753 B.C.), the beginning of an empire.
April 22
- Earth Day: Resonating with Italy’s commitment to preserving its picturesque landscapes and eco-friendly initiatives.
April 23
- World Book Day: Celebrating Italy’s literary legacy, from Dante to Calvino, and the best Italian books that have shaped it.
- Lover’s Day (Celebrated in the US): Echoing the romantic allure of Italian cities like Venice and Verona, known for their legendary love stories.
April 24
- Unveiling of Saint Padre Pio’s Body for Veneration in Puglia (2008), a day of spiritual reflection.
April 25
- Festa della Liberazione (Liberation Day) is one of Italy’s most important holidays. It commemorates Italy’s liberation from fascist occupation, a pivotal moment in Italian history.
- Festa di San Marco (Feast of St. Mark), celebrated in Venice Only: A Venetian celebration in honor of the city’s patron saint, St. Mark.
- Remembering the Death of Polymath Leon Battista Alberti (1472), a Renaissance luminary.
- Remembering the Death of Poet Torquato Tasso (1595), a literary visionary.
- Celebrating the Birth of Italian Inventor Guglielmo Marconi (1874), a pioneer of wireless communication.
April 26
- International Sculpture Day (Celebrated Internationally): Celebrating Italy’s sculptural masterpieces from renowned artists like Michelangelo and Bernini.
- Celebrating the Birth of Emperor Marcus Aurelius (121), a philosopher king.
- Remembering the Assassination of Giuliano de’ Medici (1478), a dark day in Florence’s history.
April 28
- Sardinia Day: Honoring Italy’s Sardinian island’s rich traditions and unique culture.
- Celebrating the Birth of Ferruccio Lamborghini (1916), the visionary behind one of the best Italian car brands renowned for luxury automobiles.
- Inauguration of Cinecittà (1937), the birthplace of Italian cinema masterpieces.
April 29
- Feast Day of Saint Catherine of Siena, honoring a saint of great influence.
- Luciano Pavarotti’s Stage Debut at Reggio Emilia Opera House (1961), the dawn of a legendary career.
- International Dance Day: From the tarantella, echoing the rhythms of Italian accordion brands, to ballet, Italy’s dance traditions leave a lasting imprint on global artistry.
April 30
- Remembering the Death of Filmmaker Sergio Leone (1989), a maestro of the silver screen.
- International Jazz Day: While jazz has roots in America, Italy has embraced it with festivals and renowned Italian jazz musicians.
While we diligently verify event dates, confirming with local organizers before planning your visit is always best.
Suggested Read: Holidays in Italy 2025: Events & Observances Guide