Genova weekend guide for the National Alpini Gathering: events and

National Alpini Gathering: overview of events (8–10 May 2026)

Genova hosts the National Alpini Gathering with a packed weekend of official ceremonies, parades and side events across the city and nearby towns. Here is a concise guide with dates, locations, times and practical advice to help you enjoy the weekend.

Main events

• National Alpini Gathering – Friday 8 to Sunday 10 May 2026.
  - Friday: flag raising at Piazza De Ferrari, tribute at the Arco della Vittoria and a procession of banners from the Porto Antico.
  - Saturday: Mass at the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, institutional meetings at Palazzo Ducale and evening street concerts by choirs and fanfares.
  - Sunday: the main parade starts at 09:00 from Piazza Corvetto.
  - Saturday at 13:00: parachute jump in Corso Italia (Lido di San Nazaro).
• Camogli Fish Festival (Sagra del Pesce) – Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May.
  - Sunday from 10:00 in Piazza Colombo the traditional large pan will serve fried fish.
  - Saturday: celebration of San Fortunato with fireworks and beach bonfires.
• FoodX – Food Truck Festival (Nervi) – Friday 8–Sunday 10 May.
  - Location: Piazza Duca degli Abruzzi. Hours: Fri 18:00-24:00, Sat–Sun 11:00-24:00.
  - Offers Italian and international street food, vegetarian/vegan and gluten-free options.
• Large fair of goods and livestock (Ferriere, Lumarzo) – Sunday 10 May.
  - Stalls, livestock displays and local food stands along the provincial road of Boasi.
• Kid Pass Days – Aquarium of Genova and Città dei Bambini – Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May.
  - Family-oriented activities to explore scientific and cultural exhibits with children.
• Genova Éuropa Festival – until 16 May.
  - A program of talks, debates, exhibitions and a European bike ride. On Saturday 9 May at 10:00 a discussion at the Società Economica di Chiavari on European topics.
• Marcia dei 5 Campanili (Zoagli) – Sunday 10 May.
  - About 11 km circular route. Meeting at 08:30 in Piazza XXVII Dicembre, departure at 09:30.
• The Lantern – Mother's Day – Sunday 10 May from 15:00.
  - Family workshops and activities in the park with crafts for Mother's Day.
• Amerigo Vespucci and Porto Antico village – until Saturday 9 May.
  - Calata Gadda hosts stands and maritime-themed attractions.
• Music and theatre: Massimo Ranieri concert (Politeama Genovese, Saturday 9 May at 20:30) and the play TRE SORELLE. NEVICA. CHE SENSO HA? at Teatro Eleonora Duse (running until 10 May).

Practical tips

• Transport: expect traffic changes and road closures in the city center. Use public transport and walk where possible.
• Crowds: carry water and identify meeting points; parade areas and the Porto Antico will be very busy.
• Tickets & reservations: book in advance for concerts and guided visits; many side events are free but may have limited capacity.
• Families: Kid Pass Days and the Lanterna activities are family-focused—check schedules and age restrictions in advance.

Check event organizers' official channels for last-minute updates and plan travel with some margin: the city center will be lively and schedules can change.