Jazz streets, garden fairs and ska beats: Bologna’s big weekend

A lively open‑air ska and reggae festival in the Bolognina district, with bands, DJs, street food and bar areas over two days. Ideal for experiencing Bologna’s alternative music scene and local neighbourhood vibe.

The second day of the Bolognina Ska Fest keeps the energy high with more live sets, DJ performances and street‑food stalls. A fun, informal way to spend a Sunday evening with locals and visiting music fans.

This beloved jazz festival turns the historic centre into an open‑air music route, with concerts along Via degli Orefici and the Quadrilatero. Street performances, jazz tributes and a festive atmosphere make it perfect for visitors exploring the old town.

The second day of La Strada del Jazz continues with more concerts and street events in the medieval streets of the Quadrilatero. It’s an atmospheric way to close the weekend, combining music, history and Bologna’s famed porticoes.

A charming garden and outdoor‑living fair bringing plant sellers, design objects, artisan stalls and workshops to Bologna’s largest central park. Ideal for a relaxed weekend stroll with opportunities to shop for local crafts and greenery.

The final day of Giardini&Terrazzi continues with exhibitors, garden ideas and food corners inside Giardini Margherita. A family‑friendly way to enjoy Bologna’s green side before heading home.

As part of Bologna’s DumBO Summertime Live programme, Italian electronic‑pop artist Whitemary performs a night set in this converted railway yard. Expect contemporary sounds in a hip, industrial‑chic venue popular with locals.

A world‑music and spiritual music concert by Fanna‑Fi‑Allah, bringing traditional Sufi Qawwali to a distinctive industrial space. A great option for music lovers seeking something different from mainstream gigs.

An evening of hip‑hop and urban sounds with CUTA and Poche Spanne (MATTak & Funky Nano) in a neighbourhood garden space. A relaxed, youthful outdoor concert that showcases Bologna’s contemporary music scene.

A puppet‑theatre series bringing traditional burattini shows to different spots around Bologna, with performances suitable for children and families. It’s a playful way to experience local culture beyond museums.

Part of the DiMondi 2026 programme, this afternoon event celebrates global food and music with tastings, street‑food stands and performances. Ideal for travellers wanting a multicultural flavour alongside Bologna’s classic cuisine.

A cultural event marking 100 years of Amílcar Cabral, featuring talks, documents and exhibits about the revolutionary thinker. A good stop for history and politics enthusiasts exploring Bologna’s intellectual side.

An afternoon concert in the historic Conservatorio G.B. Martini, offering refined classical music in an elegant hall. Perfect for combining culture and relaxation between sightseeing stops.

An LGBTQIA+‑friendly club night as part of the “Settembre | L’Altra Sponda” programme, with DJ sets, performances and a welcoming party atmosphere. A vibrant option for experiencing Bologna’s nightlife beyond mainstream clubs.

Hands‑on botanical workshop where participants learn to design and build a small potted garden. Great for families or creative travellers wanting a slow, nature‑focused activity during the day.