On January 1, 2025, Rome will come alive with celebrations marking the start of the new year. Following the vibrant New Year’s Eve festivities, the capital will host a range of cultural events, concerts, and family-friendly activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy on the first day of the year.
A highlight of the day will be the traditional Rome Parade, commencing at 3:30 PM from Piazza del Popolo. This festive procession promises to showcase some of the best marching bands, cheerleaders, and folklore groups, parading through the heart of the city. The route will lead participants and spectators through the streets, including Viale Adamo Mickievicz and Via del Corso, culminating at Piazza di Spagna. This free event is expected to attract both locals and tourists, creating a vibrant atmosphere as the parade winds through famous landmarks.
Alongside the parade, Roma Capodarte 2025 will kick off, featuring over 100 free events throughout the day. From music and theater to dance and cinema, the event will celebrate the arts with renowned performers like Tosca, Giancane, and Rancore. The initiative aims to promote cultural inclusivity and diversity, allowing families to engage with various artistic expressions.
For art enthusiasts, many of the Civic Museums of Rome will remain open on January 1, following special holiday hours. Visitors can explore treasures at popular sites such as the Capitoline Museums, Ara Pacis Museum, and the Galleria d’Arte Moderna. The museums will operate from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, offering guests the chance to enjoy the rich history of Rome on the very first day of the year.
Young families can head to the Bouncy Christmas Castle located at Piazza Mancini, where children can engage in safe and joyful play within the expansive inflatable village. This interactive space is perfect for children to jump, play, and explore obstacle courses, all decorated with festive themes, creating a merry environment for parents and kids alike.
On another note, the Roma Gospel Festival, Europe's largest gospel festival, will continue until January 1 at the Auditorium Parco della Musica. The festival will conclude with the performance of the New York Voices at 6 PM, showcasing the talents of American gospel groups, reinforcing the city’s commitment to celebrating musical diversity during the festive season.
A unique artistic tribute to the renowned composer Ennio Morricone will take place at the Gran Galà - Alla scoperta di Morricone event at the Auditorium Conciliazione, also starting at 6 PM. This event will guide the audience through the decades of Italian cinema and music, featuring orchestral performances intermingled with spoken word, honoring Morricone’s vast contributions.
For those who appreciate classical melodies, the Christmas Carols concert will resonate through the Basilica of Sant’Eustachio at 4:30 PM, featuring children from the St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School Choir from Houston, Texas. Their enchanting renditions of traditional Anglo-Saxon holiday songs promise to evoke the spirit of the season.
The archaeological enthusiasts can partake in the extraordinary opening of several historical sites, including the Terme di Caracalla and the Villa di Livia, maintained by the Special Superintendency of Rome. These treasured locations will offer special access on January 1, allowing visitors to explore stunning ancient architecture with extended opening hours from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
Transport options will also be accommodating on the first day of the year. Public transportation, including metro, bus, and tram services, will operate on reduced hours starting from 8 AM, ensuring visitors have access to all key events. The final metro runs will occur at 11:30 PM, allowing attendees to return home after the day’s celebrations. Meanwhile, substitute buses will follow the metro's regular routes, making travel convenient for those celebrating the New Year.
Football fans can enjoy the day with the AS Roma open training session at the Tre Fontane sports center at 3 PM. The club invites fans to come and support the team during this special gathering, which will strengthen the community spirit among supporters as they cheer on their players.
This well-rounded mix of cultural events, historical explorations, and community gatherings ensures January 1, 2025, will be celebrated memorably across Rome. Whether visitors engage with art, enjoy live performances, or simply take pleasure in the festive atmosphere, there will be plenty of opportunities to welcome the new year with joy and enthusiasm.