La Manifestival

La Manifestival, the il manifesto festival in Rome

La Manifestival is the inaugural festival organized by the daily newspaper il manifesto. It takes place in Garbatella—one of Rome's most iconic and beloved neighborhoods, located in the heart of the capital—to host three days of widespread culture. Launched in 2025, the event fills the streets, squares, libraries, and social hubs of the 8th Municipality with a packed program of debates, exhibitions, presentations, music, and theater, aiming to interpret the present through the critical and militant perspective that has always distinguished the newspaper.

A festival of the daily press, between commitment and participation

La Manifestival is more than just a festival; it is a celebration for a community of readers gathering to discuss war, migration, rights, the environment, and social justice. Each edition centers on a key theme, bringing together international guests, intellectuals, artists, and activists for an open dialogue with the public. The choice of Garbatella is no coincidence: the neighborhood, with its working-class history and spirit of solidarity, provides the ideal setting for a festival that intertwines political commitment with community life.

Music, theater, comics, and exhibitions

Alongside the debates, the program extends into the arts: concerts and DJ sets during the ManiFeste! evening sessions, theatrical performances, workshops for children and families, and a rich calendar of exhibitions. From posters inspired by the newspaper's historical archives to original comic strips and works by renowned satirical illustrators, the exhibition space animates the neighborhood streets, turning Garbatella into an open-air gallery.

A free event open to all

• Where: Garbatella district, Rome (8th Municipality), Lazio
• When: In autumn, during the month of October
• Admission: Free, subject to availability
• Organization: il manifesto, supported by the Roma Creativa 365 grant from the Municipality of Rome

With its participatory approach and international scope, La Manifestival has quickly established itself as one of the most original cultural events of the Roman autumn: a festival that combines reflection with celebration, critical thinking with the joy of being together.