Bazarabà - The Alternative Economy Bazaar

A bazaar in the heart of Testaccio

Bazarabà - The Alternative Economy Bazaar is a vibrant event that transforms the Città dell'Altra Economia at Largo Dino Frisullo into an open-air market of creativity, culture, and connection. Located in the Testaccio district—one of the most authentic neighborhoods in Rome—this venue has become a lively cultural hub, blending the history of the former slaughterhouse with a local market and spaces dedicated to the solidarity economy.

The name says it all: bazaar, evoking a blend of goods from every corner of the globe, and alternative economy, representing a different way of producing, selling, and consuming. Bazarabà is more than just a market; it is a sensory journey filled with scents, sounds, colors, and traditions.

Creative crafts and curated stalls

The heart of the event is the creative crafts area, featuring a carefully curated selection of exhibitors. This is not a generic fair; organizers prioritize handmade pieces, unique finds, and independent small-scale productions. Many artisans demonstrate their techniques live, allowing visitors to connect with the craft behind the product.

• Creative crafts with selected exhibitors and live demonstrations
• Vintage and collectibles: clothing, unique objects, and curiosities from the past
• Spirituality and wellness-focused offerings
• International street food

The Swap Area: bartering and second lives

One of the most distinctive features is the Swap Area, a space dedicated to the 'swap party' concept: here, nothing is bought or sold—only traded. Visitors bring items, clothing, or accessories they no longer need and exchange them for others. This gesture perfectly captures the event's spirit: reducing waste, extending the life of objects, and putting human connection at the center of the exchange, in line with the mission of the Città dell'Altra Economia.

Street performers, music, and roving shows

Throughout the day, the square comes alive with live artistic performances and roving shows. Musicians and street performers move among the stalls rather than staying on a central stage, bringing the entertainment directly to the public. Recent editions have featured well-known figures from the Roman scene, such as one-man band Alessandro Scintu and the famous Claudio Montuori (the "Bird Man"), alongside puppet shows and fire-eaters.

A day for families

Bazarabà is designed with families in mind, offering outdoor workshops and games, while the street performances and puppet shows appeal to both children and adults. The spacious, pedestrian-friendly grounds of the Città dell'Altra Economia make it an easy and comfortable experience for those arriving with strollers.

Why it is worth visiting

In a city that hosts markets almost every weekend, Bazarabà stands out for its setting and philosophy. The backdrop of the Città dell'Altra Economia—established to support fair trade, organic products, and reuse—gives the event a purpose that goes beyond simple shopping. You come here to find one-of-a-kind items, but also to spend a few hours outdoors, enjoy music, sample diverse foods, and discover a side of Rome that continues to invent new community spaces. Admission is free and no booking is required: feel free to drop by at any time.