Ancona is making significant strides as it showcased its ambitious tourism promotion strategies and upcoming vibrant events at the BIT of Milano, the International Tourism Exchange. This occasion marks Ancona's efforts to redefine its image from being merely a transit point to becoming a noteworthy tourist destination.
The event, led by Councilor for Tourism Daniele Berardinelli alongside manager Viviana Caravaggi, provided a platform to present the city's tourism strategy and its flagship events scheduled over the next few months. “The tourist offer of our city, illustrated at the BIT, is a fundamental step to strengthen the positioning of Ancona no longer as a place of passage, but as a tourist destination,” stated Berardinelli, highlighting the city's commitment to experiential tourism.
Among the standout initiatives poised to attract tourists are three key events: UlisseFest, Popsophia, and Napoleonic Demonstrations. The UlisseFest, organized by Lonely Planet, will take place from July 4 to 6, 2025. This festival is recognized nationally and has established itself as the leading platform for discussions and showcases on innovative and sustainable tourism trends.
Further enriching the cultural calendar, Popsophia is set for May 8-11, 2025. This festival intertwines philosophy with pop culture, featuring four days of art, music, and conferences aimed at solidifying Ancona’s reputation as a cultural point of reference. According to Evio Hermas Ercoli, the artistic director, “We will host the eight edition of UlyssesFest, confirming our status as both an attractive tourist destination and a laboratory for sustainable tourism.”
On April 26-27, 2025, Ancona will embrace the Napoleonic Demonstrations, joining the “Destination Napoleon” network, which connects 50 European cities sharing a Napoleonic heritage. This project involves historical re-enactments and educational tours, enhancing the awareness of Ancona's strategic role during the Napoleonic era.
At the BIT, the municipality also highlighted the Historic Conero Regatta, scheduled for September 19-21, 2025. Carlo Mancini, chairman of the organizing committee, affirmed its importance: “The regatta attracts sailors and enthusiasts, supporting Ancona's maritime identity and recreational boating significance.”
Complementing these offerings, Ancona will celebrate Carnival on March 1, 2025. The day promises vibrant festivities, including parades along Corso Garibaldi and culminating at Piazza Cavour, where costume contests will add gleeful competition to the celebrations. Competitors can win prizes across multiple categories, fostering community participation and inclusivity.
Participants can register for these contests until February 23, 2025, with various categories encouraging engagement from uniting the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
Overall, Ancona’s participation at BIT has effectively showcased its tourism ambitions and commitment to colorful community events, reminding attendees of the city’s picturesque offerings and historical richness. The participation solidifies Ancona’s pursuit of becoming not only a destination known for its charm but also one recognized for its innovative and sustainable tourism experiences.