Looking ahead to 2026, here are a few noteworthy events happening across Italy:
- The Winter Olympic Games are back in Italy for the first time in 20 years. The action is centered in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo and a handful of other venues across northern Italy from February 6 to 22, 2026. The Paralympic Games will be held in the same locations from March 6 to 15, 2026. (www.milanocortina2026.org)
- In conjunction with the Olympic Games, the Cultural Olympiad will showcase Italian arts and culture through dance performances, art exhibits, concerts and more across northern Italy. (www.milanocortina2026.org)
- Relics of St. Francis of Assisi will be on display at the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi from February 22 to March 22, 2026. The event, which is expected to draw pilgrims from all over, marks the 800th anniversary of St. Francis’ death. Tickets can be reserved for free. (www.sanfrancescovive.org)
- L’Aquila, in the central Italian region of Abruzzo, is the 2026 Italian Capital of Culture, which means a year filled with public events for adults and children alike focused on music, history, science and more. (laquila2026.it)
This article originally appeared in the Fall 2025 issue of Dream of Italy. Find the main article here.