FarFestival

A festival where the Tiber slows its pace

FarFestival takes place in the Nazzano, Tevere-Farfa Regional Nature Reserve, in the Meana area along the Via Tiberina, in the municipality of Nazzano (Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Lazio). This is where the Tiber slows its course, forming a vast river lake: the first protected area established in Lazio in 1979 and one of the most important wetlands in Central Italy, internationally recognized for the birdlife that stops here during migrations.

The event's name carries a double meaning: Far refers to the Farfa river, which flows into the Tiber here, but also to the Italian verb fare (to do). It is a way of saying that sustainability is not just an ideal to talk about, but a concrete commitment that requires everyone's active participation.

How the event began

The first edition was held from May 8th to 11th, 2025, and immediately attracted a large audience, featuring nationally renowned guests and a four-day free-admission format. In 2026, the festival returned from May 15th to 17th, supported by a grant from the Lazio Region and with Enel among the main partners. The scientific direction of the event was entrusted to marine biologist Andrea Bonifazi.

What to expect at FarFestival

The heart of the festival is an open-air exhibition area, with information stands hosted by research institutes, Lazio's protected areas, environmental associations, local producers, and artisans. Surrounding this core is a packed calendar of events:

• Scientific talks and meetings on biodiversity, alien species, climate change, planet defense, and sustainability;
• Educational workshops for children and teenagers, with the direct involvement of local schools;
• Canoe excursions along the Tiber and boat trips on the river section of the Reserve;
• Birdwatching lessons and guided tours to identify aquatic and migratory birds;
• Beekeeping, crafts, and food and wine featuring producers from the lower Sabina and Tevere-Farfa areas;
• Archery and outdoor activities for families.

A 2026 edition defined by institutional and public engagement

The 2026 edition concluded with a turnout of families described as extraordinary by the organizers. In addition to exhibitors and students from regional schools, several institutional representatives attended, including regional councilor Micol Grasselli, ARPA Lazio director Tommaso Aureli, and the mayors of the municipalities within the Reserve. This signals the festival's vocation: to foster dialogue between scientific research, local administrations, the school system, and citizens.

Why it's worth the trip

Less than an hour from Rome, FarFestival is one of the few opportunities to experience the Tevere-Farfa Reserve from the inside, with guides and naturalists explaining its environments: the river lake, reed beds, riparian forests, and hilly pastures. Nearby, the medieval village of Nazzano with its fortress and the River Museum, the Abbey of Farfa, and the Sabina hills complete a day that combines nature, history, and local products. The free admission and educational focus make it particularly suitable for those traveling with children.