The event
From May 28 to July 12, Rome hosts the 12th edition of Il Cinema in Piazza, the renowned summer film festival organized by Fondazione Piccolo America. One of the city’s most anticipated cultural events returns with a rich program of screenings, special guests, and live discussions across three unique open-air venues: Piazza San Cosimato in Trastevere, Parco della Cervelletta in Tor Sapienza and Monte Ciocci in Valle Aurelia.
Following the success of last year’s edition, which attracted more than 120,000 attendees, the 2026 festival features 95 free film screenings and 34 special events with internationally acclaimed directors, actors and film industry professionals. Screenings begin every evening at 9:15 PM and include films in their original language with subtitles, as well as Italian classics with English subtitles, making the festival easily accessible to international visitors exploring Rome.
The theme of the 2026 edition is a journey between reality and imagination, showcasing works that range from the great masters of 12th-century cinema to some of the most innovative contemporary voices. Highlights include retrospectives dedicated to directors such as Elio Petri, Alice Rohrwacher, Kenneth Anger, Edgar Wright, Gabriele Muccino, Steven Spielberg, Takashi Miike and the Safdie brothers. Special screenings celebrating Studio Ghibli and the cult television series Twin Peaks are also part of the programme.
Among the most anticipated guests are leading figures from the international film scene, including Marco Bellocchio, Isabella Rossellini, Oliver Stone, Jacques Audiard, Jane Campion, Pablo Larraín, Matteo Garrone, Nicolas Winding Refn, Thom Yorke, Ian McKellen and Carlo Verdone.
A particularly noteworthy feature of this year’s festival is its collaboration with New York’s prestigious Film Forum, represented by its longtime artistic director Bruce Goldstein, who will present a special selection of films exploring the cultural connection between Rome and New York.
The festival also includes special events at Cinema Troisi, exclusive screenings such as Twilight, discussions dedicated to queer cinema and unique evenings that combine film screenings with live music performances.
Do not miss the open-air movies of Il Cinema in Piazza in Rome and stay at 47 Boutique Hotel.
Discover more exhibitions and events
Il Cinema in Piazza is back to light up the Roman summer with free outdoor screenings and special events running until 12 July 2026.
Romasuona. Music in Italy 1970–1979 at Palazzo delle Esposizioni in Rome Until July 12, 2026
The World Press Photo Exhibition 2026 is on view at the Palazzo Esposizioni Roma until June 29. The annual exhibition celebrates the very best in international photojournalism.
Vasari and Rome: the exhibition at Musei Capitolini marks the 450th anniversary of Giorgio Vasari’s death and explores his deep connection with the Eternal City.
The Ara Pacis hosts an unmissable event. Until December 31, 2026, you can enjoy the immersive experience "The Ara Reveals Itself."
Hokusai in Rome. Until June 29, Palazzo Bonaparte hosts an exhibition dedicated to the master of Japanese art.
Constantin Brâncuși exhibition in Rome 2026 at Trajan’s Market: a journey through modern sculpture, art, history, and innovation.
Robert Doisneau in Rome at Museo del Genio. Over 140 shots tell the story of 20th-century Paris through the lens of the French photographer.
Caravaggio and the masters of light in Rome at the Museo Storico della Fanteria. Explore masterpieces inspired by the Italian painter.
From Vienna to Rome: an exhibition showcasing royal family masterpieces from the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna.