Bologna Estate 2026: from city centre to suburbs

From 15 May to 27 September 2026, Bologna Estate returns with a wide summer programme activating the city and the metropolitan area. The 2026 lineup includes 424 projects: 218 in Bologna and 206 in the wider metropolitan area, with many free events.

• BAUCI – Circo delle Città Invisibili (15-24 May): contemporary circus performances and workshops inspired by Italo Calvino.
• Extended opening at Biblioteca Tassinari Clò (Wednesdays 20 May - 29 July): open until midnight with evening events.
• TICO (14-21 May): a mobile knowledge workshop offering science and technology activities for children and teens.
• Opening weekend (16-17 May): Diverdeinverde, Gran Ballo dell’Unità d’Italia, Festival della Zuppa and a tribute concert to Ezio Bosso at San Petronio.
• CLOSER - Becoming the City (20 May - 16 July): exhibition and programme exploring art, community and urban spaces at Padiglione Esprit Nouveau.
• Special events: DroneArt Show (20 June), Bologna Country Fair (26-28 June), Serre d’Estate series and SEMI: cinema at the Serre (opening 27-28 May).
• New venues: Mezz’aria at the former Boldrini Barracks, TEST at Villa Turri and the former Church of San Nicolò open up spaces for cultural and community use.

The season brings together museums, libraries, festivals and local organisations to highlight heritage and encourage broad public participation: a summer programme aimed at all ages and neighbourhoods.