UMBRIA’S SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVALS 2024

Hear the music ring-out across the green heart of Italy

As summer approaches and music lovers start planning their festival-filled schedules, it’s no surprise that many flock to the well-known events that make headlines and draw huge crowds. But what about the hidden gems, the smaller yet equally impressive festivals that often fly under the radar? As a passionate music enthusiast who has roamed the rolling hills and medieval towns of Umbria, Italy, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of disappointment when a recent article on the top summer music festivals failed to mention this vibrant region. And so, I took it upon myself to uncover the rich and diverse music scene of Umbria and compile a list of the top festivals that are not to be missed. From blues to jazz to the unique International Green Music Festival, join me on a journey through the green heart of Italy to discover the magical musical treasures of Umbria.

Trasimeno Blues Festival, July 27th to August 3rd

This four-day event features an incredible lineup of international blues musicians that will have you tapping your feet and nodding your head to the rhythm. The festival takes place in the charming town of Castiglione del Lago, perched above the shores Lake Trasimeno. Aside from the impressive musical performances, the festival also offers a variety of food and wine stalls offering local Italian treats. The atmosphere is vibrant, with enthusiastic crowds of all ages gathering to celebrate the blues.The festival draws a dedicated following of music lovers who appreciate the authentic feel of the event and the beautiful surroundings. Make sure to check out the Festival schedule and grab your tickets early, as it is one of the most eagerly anticipated events in the region.

For the full program and tickets, click here: TRASIMENOBLUES

International Green Music Festival: events are held from june thru september

The lush green hills and picturesque landscapes of Umbria make it the perfect setting for an eco-friendly music festival. The Green Music Festival is a celebration of music, nature, and sustainability, all rolled into one unforgettable experience. This festival boasts a lineup of talented musicians from all over the world who come together to spread the message of environmental consciousness through their art. Attendees can enjoy an array of musical genres, from rock to pop to world music, while immersed in the beauty of the Umbrian countryside.

What sets the Green Music Festival apart from other music festivals is its commitment to sustainability. From waste reduction to renewable energy sources, the festival organizers take great care to minimize their impact on the environment. In addition, they also partner with local organizations to promote sustainable practices throughout the region.If you’re looking for a music festival that not only provides great entertainment but also promotes environmental responsibility, then the Green Music Festival is for you. And if Jazz is more your style, don’t worry—the next festival on my list is the incomparable Umbria Jazz Festival.

For more information and a Full run down of performers, click here: GREENMUSICFEST

LARS ROCK FEST: CASTIGLIONE DEL LAGO 20TH JUNE AND CHIUSI 5,6,7TH JULY

Get ready for an epic three-day rock fest that will leave you feeling exhilarated and fulfilled. This year’s Lars rock fest is bringing the heat with FREE international rock music, guaranteed to make you want to dance all night long.

But this festival isn’t just any ordinary rock fest. It’s a cross-border extravaganza that celebrates the vibrant music scene of Umbria, Tusacany and beyond. In fact, the festival is already a bit Umbrian, as it attracts a large audience from the area and features talented artists from the region, including the renowned musical director Alessandro Sambucari from Perugia. Plus this year they are doing the warm up gig in Castiglione del Lago.

As if the music isn’t enough, the festival also offers a diverse range of activities for all ages and interests. From live concerts to book and vinyl markets, there’s something for everyone at the public gardens of Via Oslavia in Chiusi. On top of that, the entire event is organized by the Municipality of Chiusi, the Orizzonti d’arte di Chiusi Foundation, and the GEC Association – a team of over one hundred dedicated volunteers who bring this festival to life. With a lineup of twelve incredible concerts and a variety of other cultural experiences, including designer showcases, independent publishing fairs, and children’s workshops, the Lars rock fest is more than just a music festival. It’s a vibrant celebration of art, creativity, and community spirit.

For a full list of the line up click here: LARSROCKFEST

WONDERLAST FESTIVAL: GUBBIO JULY 13 AND 14TH

The Wonderlast Music Festival is a one-of-a-kind event brings together people from all over Italy and beyond to celebrate music in all its forms. Get ready to dance the night away as we present a mix of live acts and DJ sets that will transport you to the music festivals of Northern Europe.

Nestled in the beautiful heart of Italy, the atmosphere at #WMF is unbeatable. Join us at the “Gubbio Events Arena,” a spacious 2000 m2 dance floor surrounded by a sprawling 6000 m2 lawn. As you bask in the lush green surroundings, the music will pulse through your body, creating an unforgettable experience.

But the Wonderlast Music Festival is more than just music. It’s a two-day celebration of all things creative. Interact with our talented DJs, artists, and performers as they lead engaging activities throughout the festival. Get ready to be immersed in a world of music, art, and fun at Wonderlast.

Want to know more click here: WONDERLASTFEST

Pan Opera Festival: Panicale mid-June

Prose, music and, above all, opera have always echoed within the walls of Panicale, a beautiful village located above the Trasimeno Lake, where the theatre has been living and flourishing since the seventeenth century. The Cesare Caporali Theatre is going to host the Pan Opera Festival for another year.

For more information, click here: PANOPERAPANICALE

RIVEROCK FESTIVAL: ASSISI – ROCCA MAGGIORE 25-28 LUGLIO

This dynamic three-day event set within the historic Rocca of Assisi offers a fantastic lineup of bands from various corners of the globe, melding local talent with international acts. The festival combines free and paid concerts, making it accessible to a wider audience and ensuring that everyone can enjoy the vibrancy of live music in a truly picturesque setting. This blend of complimentary and ticketed events allows attendees to customize their experience, enjoying an array of musical genres against the backdrop of Assisi’s stunning medieval castle.

More info @ RIVEROCKFESTIVAL

UMBRIA CLASSICAL FESTIVAL: August 17th to August 29th

International Masterclasses: Summer Edition in Narni, Italy. This renowned event has become a must-attend for experts, professional musicians, students, and classical music enthusiasts alike. Held every August in the charming city of Narni, it offers a platform for all orchestral instruments, piano, and composition.

With a rich history and growing cultural impact, this event draws over 120 students from more than 20 countries. Their shared passion for music, coupled with top-tier training and a three hundred and sixty-degree immersion in musical life, creates a dynamic atmosphere for growth and improvement. The stunning medieval town serves as the backdrop for unforgettable musical and personal development. And the connections made with teachers and fellow students often blossom into lifelong friendships. If you’ve attended before, then you know exactly what we’re talking about. Don’t miss out on this artistically and humanly enriching experience.

For more information about this unique event, click here: UMBRIA CLASSICAL FESTIVAL

Umbria Jazz Festival: July 12th–21st

If you’re someone who appreciates the smooth melodies and improvisation of jazz music, then the Jazz Festival in Umbria should be on your bucket list. Held annually in the charming town of Perugia, this festival attracts jazz enthusiasts from around the world. One of the highlights of the Jazz Festival is the opportunity to see both established legends and up-and-coming artists perform on the same stage. From swing to bebop, this festival truly celebrates the diversity of jazz.

In addition to the exceptional music, the Jazz Festival also offers a variety of workshops and masterclasses where attendees can learn from some of the world’s best jazz musicians.

Click here to see all the offerings at UMBRIAJAZZ

Spoleto Festival: June 28th–July 14th

Set against the picturesque backdrop of the medieval town of Spoleto, this festival showcases an eclectic mix of music, theater, and dance, from classical to contemporary. The Spoleto Festival’s ability to skillfully combine antiquated customs with contemporary interpretations is among its most fascinating features. You could, for example, attend a performance of a traditional Italian opera one moment and then be astounded by a state-of-the-art contemporary dance performance the next.

Not only that, but the Spoleto Festival also offers a variety of other cultural activities, such as poetry readings, talks, and art exhibits. You will be submerged in an artistic wonderland that full fills you on an intellectual and emotional level right here.

For the full calendar of performances, click here: SPOLETODEIDUEMONDO

Moon in June: June 23rd–August 28th

The Moon in June Festival is promising yet another fantastic musical event. This festival, which takes place in the quaint towns and islands around Lago Trasimeno, features a wide roster of international performers, from jazz musicians to classical musicians and everything in between. The main stage of the festival is situated on the lovely island of Maggiore, which offers an exquisite setting for the events.

There are numerous smaller stages and venues dotted around the area, in addition to the main stage, that feature up-and-coming musicians and local talent. Both tourists and locals are buzzing with excitement about the music and festivities, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere.

To discover all the acts performing this year, click here: MOONINJUNE

Sagra Musicale Umbra: Perugia September 2024

This is a festival dedicated to classical and chamber music, with almost 140 different companies taking part. During the festival days, it’s also possible to admire instruments made by local artisans.

For the official program this year, click here: SARGRAMUSICALE

Todi Festival: 24TH AUGUST- 1ST SEPTEMBER

Every year, in late August to early September, a variety of artistic mediums—including dance, theater, music, and literature—are presented and combined at the Todi Festival. Silvano Spada founded it in 1987, and since then, its reputation has expanded tremendously, earning it a reputation for innovation and creativity. Performers, directors, and writers from Italy and other countries are drawn to it.

In Todi’s streets and squares, like the main Piazza del Popolo and the steps of the Church of San Fortunato, concerts take place both indoors in the magnificent Carlo Gatteschi theater and outdoors. Using more locations on the village’s outskirts will increase tourists’ awareness of Todi and its surroundings.

A number of other events are taking place concurrently, including guided tours, food and wine tastings, dance and acting workshops, and more. For the duration of the celebration, numerous historic structures, including churches, will also be open.

For the full program and tickets click here: TODIFEST

Other Festivals Worth Exploring

PALIO DEI TERZIERE – CITTA DELLA PIEVE

If you’re looking for even more opportunities to explore the region’s rich music, art, and culture, there are plenty of other events worth checking out, including Citta della Pieve’s stunning Flower Festival, L’infiorata, annually over the last weekend in June, and the town’s famous Palio dei Terziere in August.

Summertime in Umbria’s charming towns and villages is always buzzing with festivals, or sagras. Each displaying with a great deal of civic pride their unique talents. I sincerely hope you will get the opportunity to travel to this area this season. If you are already here, consider checking out some of my recommended new musical treats.

For the full Calendar of Umbrian events, click here: UMBRIAEVENTS.COM

With a wonderful assortment of accommodations to suit all budgets and tastes including our very own GROVE COTTAGE, excellent restaurants, historic sights, spa’s, cookery schools, and, of course, stunning natural landscapes, visit Umbria to discover why The Lonely Planet guide awarded the region ‘Best travel in 2024′.