As the first weekend of spring approaches, the city of Rome is bracing for a vibrant tapestry of events scheduled for March 22 and 23, 2025. The weekend will be marked by significant mobility changes due to the fifth and final installment of the city’s ecological initiative, dubbed "domenica ecologica." With this event, traffic restrictions will impact circulation in several parts of the capital, as numerous festivities promise to showcase the rich cultural and culinary heritage of the region.
On Sunday, March 23, the ZTL Fascia Verde (the Green Limited Traffic Zone) will be in effect from 07:30 to 12:30 and then again from 16:30 to 20:30. During these hours, all motor vehicles will be prohibited from entering the zone. However, there are exceptions for hybrid and electric vehicles, those powered by LPG or methane from Euro 3 onwards, and Euro 6 petrol cars. Motorbikes 4-stroke Euro 3 and later, sharing vehicles, and vehicles serving people with disabilities will also be allowed. The aim is to promote environmental sustainability and reduce air pollution.
On Saturday, March 22, a demonstration will take place in Piazza Santi Apostoli from 10:00 to 12:30, and parking restrictions will be strictly enforced, with vehicles removed starting at 08:00. Moreover, another demonstration at Pigneto will close traffic between 11:00 and 13:00, followed by a procession that will weave through various streets from 14:30 until late afternoon.
Simultaneously, the cultural scene is bustling. A highlight is the Vintage Market Roma, making its seasonal debut in the San Paolo District, showcasing over 200 artisans and vendors. This event, spanning both days, promises an array of handmade goods, vintage finds, and culinary delights.
The Amatriciana & Carbonara Festival will also take place from March 21 to 23 at Eatay Roma Ostiense, inviting locals and visitors to savor traditional Roman pasta dishes. With skilled restaurants contributing their recipes, food lovers can engage in a culinary rivalry between fans of amatriciana and carbonara.
Beyond food, the cultural event entitled Libri Come will celebrate literature at the Auditorium Parco della Musica Ennio Morricone, featuring guest authors and more than a hundred discussions and readings, themed around "Pace" or peace. "We invite everyone to join us in celebrating water and its importance to our culture," stated a representative from Sovrintendenza Capitolina regarding the special activities planned for World Water Day on March 22.
The Giornate FAI di Primavera will allow visitors to explore hidden treasures in Rome, with 750 sites open across 400 cities for free, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the FAI volunteers.
As the events unfold, changes to public transport will also be felt. Many bus routes will be diverted, with the most affected being lines 3 and 8, which will be replaced by buses during the circonvallazione Gianicolense closures for maintenance.
On Sunday, from 16:00 to 19:00, another procession will occur in Monteverde, affecting circulation on several local streets. Likewise, an exercise by the Civil Protection department will necessitate road closures in Prima Porta to address flood risks.
Culinary discoveries will further continue with the opening of the Italian Beer Museum on Saturday at Via XXIV Maggio. This new space aims to celebrate the craft of beer-making in Italy with interactive exhibitions and tastings.
The Torresina TTS Street Food will also kick off on March 21, bringing a delightful array of street food from the country's top chefs right to the heart of the Torresina district.
Closing the weekend, on Sunday, March 23, the Festa rionale di San Giuseppe will take place in Trionfale. This vibrant community celebration includes games, a children’s marathon, and various entertainment, running from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
For family-friendly activities, Teatro di Villa Lazzaroni will present “Pulcinella e la luna,” an engaging theatrical performance featuring Pulcinella and his adventures. Similarly, the children's mystery show "Chi ha rubato la tartaruga?" will allow young audiences to engage and solve the mystery live.
As cultural opportunities bloom throughout the city, the weekend of March 22 and 23 is set to be a rich experience for both residents and tourists. From celebrations of delicious cuisine to the artistic expressions of literature and history, the Roman spring will burst forth in a festival of sights, sounds, and flavors.
So mark your calendars, plan your routes accordingly, and prepare to enjoy a weekend filled with exploration and community spirit!
