Testaccio Beer Festival

A beer festival in Rome's most convivial neighborhood

Testaccio has always been Rome's go-to district for food and conviviality: here, between the Monte dei Cocci and the old industrial structures of the Ex Mattatoio, the capital's traditional cuisine has written some of its most famous chapters. It is in this setting that the Testaccio Beer Festival takes place, hosted within the Città dell'Altra Economia, a large 3,500-square-meter complex carved out of the former slaughterhouse's cattle market, now dedicated to events, markets, and cultural activities. A venue that, due to its history and architecture, is perfectly suited for a popular open-air event.

Over forty beers, a journey through brewing cultures

The heart of the event is the selection: more than forty labels that map out a true geographical itinerary through the countries that have shaped the history of beer. Germany is represented with lagers, bocks, and great classics; Belgium brings abbey beers, blanches, and fuller-bodied brews; Great Britain fields IPAs, ales, and stouts. The journey is completed by Eastern Europe, a section dedicated to the rest of the world, and naturally Italy, with a selection of craft breweries. Each area pairs international classics with sought-after craft labels, catering to an audience that has become increasingly curious and knowledgeable in recent years.

The Roman brewery in the spotlight

A place of honor is reserved for the capital's independent brewing scene: the G.R.A. – La Birra de Roma brewery is a special guest, featuring six entirely craft beers produced in Rome. It is a way to showcase how, in recent years, the city has developed its own brewing identity, defined by small producers and a recognizable style.

Music, barbecue, and street food

The Beer Festival is not just about tasting. Every evening has its own soundtrack, with live bands and DJ sets ranging from Italian vibes to 90s hits and indie rock. The food area is equally rich: street food, barbecue specialties, arrosticini, sandwiches, and dishes from across the peninsula, all designed to pair with the different beer styles. The atmosphere is that of a typical Roman neighborhood party, where families, groups of friends, and enthusiasts mingle without formality.

A staple of the Roman spring

The event is part of the calendar of activities that bring the Ex Mattatoio to life during the warmer months, as part of the cultural regeneration initiatives of the Municipality of Rome and the First Municipality. For visitors traveling in Lazio, it is an opportunity to discover an authentic and contemporary side of the city, far from the tourist trails of the historic center: a lively neighborhood with its own market, trattorias, and nightlife.

Why it's worth a visit

• Free admission, no booking required
• Over 40 beers selected from six geographical areas
• Live concerts and DJ sets every evening
• Large street food area and barbecue cuisine
• Historic location just a short walk from the Pyramid of Cestius and the most authentic Testaccio