GemmaItaly in spring is pure magic. The air is crisp but warming, flowers bloom in every corner, and towns come alive with vibrant colors, music, and laughter. From my own personal experience, visiting Italy in spring feels like stepping into a living painting—every festival tells a story, every street hums with tradition, and every dish tastes like a celebration. In this blog, I’ll take you through twelve of the most beautiful springtime festivals across Italy, highlighting what to see, what to do, and why each festival is an experience you really don’t want to miss.
1. Infiorata di Genzano – The Flower Festival
If flowers make your heart sing, the Infiorata di Genzano is an absolute must. Held in late May near Rome, the town streets transform into carpets of flowers forming intricate, colorful designs. Artists spend hours arranging petals into mosaics depicting religious scenes, historical figures, and contemporary art.
What to do:
- Walk along Via Sforza and admire the detailed floral carpets.
- Try to catch the flower-making process early in the morning for an insider experience.
- Taste local Roman delicacies sold in festival stalls.
Why it’s special: The artistry here is unparalleled. From my own personal experience, the level of detail in the petal mosaics is astonishing—you’ll find yourself staring in awe at designs that seem almost too perfect to be real.
2. Carnevale di Venezia – Venetian Carnival
Though traditionally a winter festival, Venice extends its festivities into early spring some years. Masks, costumes, and gondolas set the stage for one of the most visually stunning festivals in the world.
What to do:
- Attend masked balls or street parades to see traditional Venetian attire.
- Take a gondola ride through canals to experience the festival from the water.
- Sample Venetian sweets like fritole and galani.
Why it’s special: Venice during carnival is theatrical and enchanting. You feel transported to another era, and even simple strolls through the piazzas become unforgettable moments.
3. Festa della Primavera in Florence
Florence welcomes spring with art, music, and cultural events that highlight the city’s rich history. Local artisans, musicians, and performers fill the streets and squares, celebrating the season of renewal.
What to do:
- Explore Piazza del Duomo and catch street performances.
- Visit artisan markets for handmade jewelry, ceramics, and leather goods.
- Enjoy a picnic along the Arno River while listening to live music.
Why it’s special: Florence blends culture, art, and community in a way few cities can. Based on my overall experience, the energy of locals and visitors mingling in historical surroundings gives spring a magical, almost tangible warmth.
4. Primavera in Fiore – Turin Flower Festival
This lesser-known festival in Turin is a paradise for garden lovers. Parks and historic gardens host exhibitions of exotic and native flowers, while workshops teach floral arrangement techniques.
What to do:
- Take part in guided garden tours at Parco del Valentino.
- Attend floral arrangement workshops for hands-on experience.
- Capture photographs of rare blooms in the city’s botanical gardens.
Why it’s special: Unlike crowded tourist festivals, Primavera in Fiore offers a quieter, more intimate connection with nature. It’s perfect if you want to slow down and absorb spring’s beauty.
5. Corsa dei Ceri – Gubbio’s Candle Race
Held in May, this festival is a thrilling display of tradition, devotion, and adrenaline. Three massive wooden structures topped with statues race through the streets of Gubbio, accompanied by chanting crowds and drummers.
What to do:
- Join the crowd lining the streets to cheer the runners.
- Visit local churches and historic sites in Gubbio for context.
- Try Umbrian cuisine at nearby trattorias.
Why it’s special: The intensity is unlike anything else. From my own personal experience, the energy of participants and spectators creates a shared excitement that is both exhilarating and moving.
6. Maggio dei Fiori – Ligurian Flower Celebration
In Liguria, spring comes alive with flowers and cultural performances in towns like Sanremo and Imperia. Streets are decorated with blooms, and musicians, dancers, and artisans showcase their talents.
What to do:
- Walk along scenic coastal streets adorned with flowers.
- Attend live music shows featuring traditional Italian folk music.
- Sample regional seafood dishes while enjoying outdoor performances.
Why it’s special: This festival combines natural beauty with vibrant local culture. The coastal views paired with colorful blooms make it one of the most photogenic spring experiences in Italy.
7. Festa dei Fiori – Spello, Umbria
Spello transforms into a flower wonderland during the Festa dei Fiori, usually in late May or early June. Floral carpets and art installations wind through cobbled streets and historical landmarks.
What to do:
- Stroll through the historic center, admiring flower decorations.
- Visit local craft shops for handmade souvenirs.
- Enjoy Umbria’s local wines and olive oils at festival booths.
Why it’s special: The town’s medieval architecture paired with floral artistry creates a storybook atmosphere. Based on my overall experience, walking through Spello during this festival feels like stepping into a dream.
8. Sagra delle Fragole – Strawberry Festival in Berceto
Spring in Italy wouldn’t be complete without a festival celebrating fresh produce. In Berceto, the strawberry festival showcases sweet, juicy fruits with tastings, workshops, and fun competitions.
What to do:
- Taste various strawberry dishes, from tarts to jams.
- Attend cooking demonstrations featuring strawberries.
- Join family-friendly activities like strawberry-picking contests.
Why it’s special: It’s a joyful, hands-on experience. From my own personal experience, the scent of ripe strawberries combined with laughter and music makes this festival irresistible.
9. Fiorita di Sanremo – Sanremo Flower Parade
The iconic Sanremo Flower Parade takes place in spring, where floats covered entirely in flowers move through the streets, accompanied by music and dance.
What to do:
- Watch the elaborate floats and take plenty of photos.
- Enjoy performances by local dance troupes and musicians.
- Explore nearby markets selling seasonal flowers and souvenirs.
Why it’s special: This festival perfectly combines visual beauty with lively entertainment, making it ideal for anyone seeking an immersive cultural experience.
10. Palio dei Fiori – Cagliari, Sardinia
Sardinia’s Palio dei Fiori celebrates the season with flower-adorned horses, traditional costumes, and colorful parades. It’s a chance to see Sardinian culture come alive in a vibrant spectacle.
What to do:
- Observe horse parades and traditional Sardinian dances.
- Sample local Sardinian pastries and seafood dishes.
- Explore nearby beaches for a springtime seaside escape.
Why it’s special: Sardinian traditions are bold and colorful. Based on my overall experience, witnessing a Palio festival in Sardinia is both exhilarating and culturally enriching.
11. Maggio Musicale Fiorentino – Florence Spring Music Festival
For classical music lovers, this Florence festival is a must. Concerts take place in stunning historical theaters, offering performances by world-renowned musicians.
What to do:
- Attend opera performances at Teatro del Maggio Musicale.
- Explore Florence’s artistic landmarks during daytime.
- Enjoy pre-concert dinners at local trattorias.
Why it’s special: Music in Florence feels historic and grand. From my own personal experience, hearing a live orchestra in such an iconic city adds depth and emotion to the spring experience.
12. Primavera in Piazza – Bologna
Bologna celebrates spring with open-air markets, street performances, and food festivals. Piazza Maggiore becomes the heart of celebration with music, dance, and local delicacies.
What to do:
- Wander through artisan markets for crafts and foods.
- Join dance and music workshops offered in the square.
- Taste traditional Bolognese dishes like tortellini and ragù.
Why it’s special: Bologna combines culinary delights with cultural festivities. Based on my overall experience, this festival captures the essence of Italian spring—joyful, flavorful, and full of life.
Spring in Italy is a season of colors, traditions, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re marveling at floral carpets, enjoying a street parade, or tasting local delicacies, these twelve festivals showcase the country’s rich culture in the most vibrant way. From my own personal experience, planning your visit around these celebrations will make your trip truly unforgettable.
These festivals are not just events—they’re immersive experiences that let you connect with the heart of Italian culture, witness centuries-old traditions, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.