Village Celimontana Jazz Festival

Jazz under the stars at Villa Celimontana

In the heart of Rome, on the Caelian Hill, the Village Celimontana transforms the historic gardens of Villa Celimontana into one of the Capital's most beloved open-air stages every summer. For four months, from May 15 to September 5, 2026, the festival offers over one hundred free concerts dedicated to jazz, swing, manouche, and rock'n'roll, with Italian and international musicians alternating on stage. It is a festival that combines great live music, a relaxed atmosphere, and the beauty of one of Rome's most fascinating parks.

A green oasis in the center of Rome

Villa Celimontana stands on the Caelian Hill, one of the seven hills of Rome, just a stone's throw from the Colosseum and the Baths of Caracalla. Its centuries-old park, with its Egyptian obelisk, tree-lined avenues, and fountains, offers a refreshing green break during summer evenings. In this setting, the festival builds a true village: an area with a stage, dance floors, a dining area, and tables, where the public can listen to music, dine, and dance in an informal and convivial atmosphere.

The 2026 tenth edition

The 2026 edition marks an important milestone: the tenth edition of Village Celimontana. Opening the festival on May 15 is Emanuele Urso, the "King of Swing," with a nine-piece band dedicated to the repertoire of Benny Goodman. Throughout the season, great names in jazz and swing such as Max Ionata, Damon Brown, Massimo Moriconi, Eddy Palermo, Les Chats Noirs, and the Kisito Jazz Band will take the stage, alongside many other stars of the national and international scene.

Weekly events

The festival marks the week with themed evenings that have become its trademark:

• Monday — Claudio "Greg" Gregori performing rock'n'roll, swing, and country;
• Tuesday — "Swing Swing Swing," with free Lindy Hop, Charleston, and Balboa lessons followed by the concert;
• Sunday — Fifties-style rock'n'roll evenings and "History and Music" brunch at lunchtime, with anecdotes and stories accompanied by live music.

Roman Classic Jazz Festival and Gipsy Mini Festival

Two special events take place within the long season. The Roman Classic Jazz Festival, from August 19 to 22, is curated by Lino Patruno and celebrates classic early jazz. From August 26 to 28, the Gipsy Mini Festival pays tribute to Django Reinhardt and manouche jazz, with special guests such as Tchavolo Schmitt, an authentic legend of international gypsy jazz.

A festival for everyone

With free admission, daily programming, and an atmosphere suitable for families, Village Celimontana is one of the most characteristic musical events of the Roman summer. Set in the frame of Villa Celimontana, in the Lazio region and the historic center of Rome, it represents a simple and pleasant way to experience the city after sunset, amidst good music, dance, and conviviality.