An evening of music, art, and shopping in the heart of Mantua
Centro in Festa is the event that the Municipality of Mantua dedicates to animating its historic center: for one evening, the streets and squares of the city's heart become a large, widespread stage, featuring music, art, dance, and commerce. It is one of the most cherished occasions to experience the center of Mantua in a convivial and festive atmosphere.
The 2026 edition revolves around the theme of Beauty and takes place on Saturday, May 9th, from 5 PM to midnight. The program intertwines concerts, DJ sets, urban dance performances, itinerant shows, and workshops, in a mix designed to engage all ages and the entire city audience.
Among the most spectacular events are the Color Parade in the late afternoon — a colorful procession with music and color throws — and the MantovArt Youth Day, a day dedicated to young people with workshops, exhibitions, and student performances. The shops in the center remain open late, with windows decorated for the occasion.
A UNESCO World Heritage site and Renaissance capital of the Gonzaga, Mantua (Province of Mantua) makes Centro in Festa a moment of urban vitality that promotes local commerce and creativity, returning the historic center to its inhabitants for an evening of celebration.
On Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 5 PM to midnight, Mantua's historic center hosts Centro in Festa on the theme of Beauty. The city transforms into an open-air stage with music, DJ sets, street art, dance, and shops open until late.
In the afternoon, the Color Parade (4 PM-6 PM) crosses the city with music and color throws, while the MantovArt Youth Day (10 AM-5 PM) offers workshops, exhibitions, and student performances.
NET Festival performances along Via Orefici and the Pescherie.
Ceramics workshops, bookbinding, skincare masterclasses, and escape room challenges in the library.
Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 5 PM to midnight.
Historic center of Mantua.
Free admission event.
Mantua is reachable by train and car (A22, Mantova Nord/Sud exits). During the evening, the center is largely pedestrianized: it is advisable to park in the outer areas and walk.
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Centro storico di Mantova
Centro storico, 46100 Mantova