La Centrale – Imola Summer Fest

Imola's Summer Headquarters

When the end of June arrives, there's only one place to be in Imola under the stars: La Centrale – Imola Summer Fest. For eighteen consecutive evenings, from June 25 to July 12, 2026, the Parco Centrale Hera on Via Montericco comes alive with music, lights, and the aromas of Romagna cuisine. It's the "coolest party of the summer," as it likes to call itself, and it draws thousands of people from Imola and the entire metropolitan city of Bologna each year.

Live Music Every Night, Always Free

The heart of the event is the stage: every evening, starting at 7:00 PM, concerts, tribute bands, comedy acts, and entertainment shows take place, all completely free. The lineup ranges from Italian folk-rock to singer-songwriter music, from 90s covers to reggae and popular music, with a particular focus on artists who know how to get audiences of all generations dancing and singing.

Romagna on Your Plate and Beer in Your Glass

La Centrale was born as the summer offshoot of La Centrale della Birra (The Beer Central), and it shows: the food and drink offerings are one of its strong points. The restaurant serves the great classics of Romagna and Imola cuisine — tortelli, tortellini, garganelli, polenta with ragù — while the fast food section satisfies those who prefer hamburgers, hot dogs, and piadine. For drinks, there are draft beers and a selection of cocktails, from Spritz to Mojito.

More Than Just Concerts: A Park for the Whole Family

What makes La Centrale an event suitable for all ages is its dimension as a widespread amusement park. Between concerts, you can stroll through the markets, stop by the rides, leave the children at the baby park with inflatables and entertainment, and take a photo at the selfie area. Don't miss Millumini – Festival of Talking Lights, a luminous path of over a thousand meters with installations and light games that enchant young and old every evening.

An Event Rooted in the Territory

Organized by the association App&Down A.P.S., La Centrale is now a well-established tradition of the summer in the Municipality of Imola, in Emilia-Romagna. Its proven formula — free admission, ample free parking, a program lasting almost three weeks — makes it one of the most attended free events in the area and a reference point for those seeking good music, good food, and a carefree festive atmosphere.