Holi Festival of Colors (Green Market Festival)

The Holi Festival of Colors in Rome

Every spring, the Testaccio district in Rome hosts one of the capital's most colorful intercultural events at the Città dell'Altra Economia (located in the former slaughterhouse, in Largo Dino Frisullo): the Holi Festival of Colors, a themed edition of the Green Market Festival organized by the EticArte association. Inspired by the ancient Hindu festival of Holi, which celebrates the end of winter and the return of the warm season, the event brings the colors, scents, and sounds of Indian culture to Rome for a weekend of free admission.

Colors, performances, and Indian culture

The heart of the festival is the throwing of colored powders, a symbolic gesture that erases differences and unites people of all ages and backgrounds. Around this ritual, the program features performances and disciplines from Indian tradition: Bollywood dance, oriental-inspired fire dancing at sunset, demonstrations of kalaripayattu (the ancient martial art of Kerala), hatha yoga sessions, and meditation moments open to everyone.

Workshops, families, and children

The Holi Festival of Colors is designed as a celebration for everyone—family friendly, pet friendly, and LGBTQ+ friendly. Creative workshops are held throughout the day for both children and adults:

• Face painting and non-toxic resin workshops
• Pottery, intuitive painting, and mandala creation workshops
• Theater workshops for children and teenagers
• Pilates lessons and wellness practices

The Green Market and ethical economy

The event is framed by the Green Market, a marketplace featuring artisans, artists, and non-profit organizations showcasing handmade creations: ceramics, bags, jewelry, mosaics, lamps, plants, soaps, and natural cosmetics, often linked to social and environmental projects. The location at the Città dell'Altra Economia is no coincidence: this space in the Municipality of Rome has always been dedicated to fair trade, ethical economy, and sustainability—values that the EticArte association has been promoting since 2020.

Flavors from India

The food area offers 100% plant-based cuisine inspired by Indian flavors, with spicy dishes and options for every taste, accompanying the day from opening until sunset. Located in the Lazio region, just a few steps from the Tiber River and the Monte dei Cocci, the Holi Festival of Colors is an opportunity to experience Testaccio in a different way, amidst colors, music, and cultural exchange.