A Guide To The Best Events In January 2025 In Rome

Discovering the best things to do in Rome in January

Get ready to kick off the new year in style… Rome offers a series of exciting events in January 2025. The Jubilee has just begun, and there’s so much more to explore. Here’s our list of the best happenings in the city, promising a January filled with enchanting experiences for those who choose to experience the magic of Rome in the first month of the year.

Exhibitions this January in Rome

There is a vibrant array of ongoing and brand-new art exhibitions gracing Rome this month. The Historic Infantry Museum features two exhibits: one showcasing works by Mirò and another dedicated to Antonio Ligabue, running until 12 January, so don’t miss this final chance to see it. It’s also your last opportunity to visit the Botero retrospective at Palazzo Bonaparte, open until 19 January 2025, and Guercino. L’era Ludovisi a Roma at the Scuderie del Quirinale, closing on 26 January 2025.

Other highlights include Roma Pittrice at Palazzo Braschi, an all-women exhibition. In the EUR district, enjoy the colorful Pop-Art exhibit at La Vaccheria, while Palazzo delle Esposizioni offers a stunning scenographic display by Pietro Ruffo. For a unique experience, visit the Tony Cragg exhibition at the Baths of Diocletian, where contemporary art blends with ancient Roman grandeur. At the Ara Pacis Museum, don’t miss the first major retrospective exhibition dedicated to Franco Fontana.

Best events in January in Rome

Live music

In January, Rome is alive with a variety of live music concerts, spanning from opera to Italian contemporary tunes to tribute shows. Get ready for a musical journey that caters to every taste, promising a vibrant start to the year in the Eternal city.

1 January | Roma Capodarte 2025

Rome is preparing to say goodbye to 2024 and welcome the New Year with a rich calendar of events in the name of music, art, culture and entertainment. On the 1 January 2025, Capodarte is back, with several free initiatives spread across various parts of the city. Concerts, guided tours, shows and activities for young and old will animate museums, municipal libraries, theatres, cinemas and other cultural venues that will be extraordinarily open for the occasion until the evening. Giancane and Rancore will be among the featured artists. Two special, completely free concerts will turn key locations in Rome’s outskirts into extraordinary stages.

1 January | Opening of Holy Door at St Mary Major’s

The second-to-last opening of the Holy Door takes place on January 1st at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major. Pope Francis will preside over the ceremony.

5 January | Opening of Holy Door at St Paul’s outside the Walls

The final Opening of the Holy Door will take place on January 5th at the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls. With this ceremony, all Holy Doors across the major basilicas will have been opened, marking the full commencement of the Jubilee.

Until 6 January | Festa della Befana di Roma

In Piazza Navona, the Festa della Befana returns, enchanting young and old with a lineup of special events. The grand finale unfolds on January 6th when the Befana arrives in Piazza Navona. The friendly witch will bring gifts and sweets for all the children. An absolute festive delight for the whole family, brimming with performances, music, and joyous celebrations.

Until 12 January | Trame di Luce

Get the best of both worlds — that is, stunning lights and sweeping musical scores — at Trame di Luce, an immersive sensory exhibition at the Botanical Garden of Rome. Attendees walk through parks and gardens enhanced by supernatural light displays and can even grab a magical bite to eat at their gourmet food court, Taste of Lights. The Botanical Garden, which dates back to the 1200s, partnered with the Royal Garden of Monza, the Light Art Collection and the Palazzo Corsini to create a truly otherworldly experience.

Until 6 January | Christmas World

The Christmas World at Villa Borghese is returning for another round of holiday joy. With replicas of cities around the world, musical performances, a carousel, a chocolate factory, an ice-skating rink and even a model of Santa’s house, there’s something for every member of the family. And if that wasn’t enough, each city replica will also have its own food court for your tasting pleasure. The Christmas World at Villa Borghese is open daily from 10am to 8pm.

Until 6 January | Christmas at the Auditorium

Celebrate the holiday season at the Auditorium Parco Della Musica, where Christmas magic is in full swing. In addition to the programming of pop, jazz and rock music concerts, there is the usual Rome Gospel Festival, one of the most important gospel festivals in Europe, which features some of the best ensembles from the United States. Completing the chilly Christmas vibe, performances for children and guided tours for families will guarantee fun for people of all ages.

Until 6 January | 100 Presepi in Vaticano

Depictions of the birth of Jesus Christ are found all around the world come Christmastime, but Italians have a special pride for their nativity scenes, or presepi in Italian. This is abundantly clear in this exhibit, which presents the most beautiful presepi at the Colonnade of Piazza San Pietro in the holy city of the Vatican itself. Over 300 works were nominated from different countries, of which only 100 are selected for display. Whether you’re a craftsman or just a casual observer appreciating the artistry, you’re welcome to come and see these masterpieces for yourself.

Until 6 January | This is Wonderland – Pinocchio, Christmas Edition

This is Wonderland Pinocchio returns by popular demand with a special Christmas edition! The magic of the holidays blends with the enchanting world of fairy tales, offering a unique experience filled with live performances, sparkling decorations, and the chance to meet Santa Claus in person! Little ones can share unforgettable moments with Pinocchio, Geppetto, and friends from this fantastic world.

24-26 January | Jubilee of the World of Communications

The Jubilee of the World of Communications marks the start of events dedicated to different areas of society. This special event invites everyone working in communications, including journalists, media professionals, editors, video makers, graphic designers, PR staff, social media managers, audio and video technicians, and more.

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