On a Saturday in September, the shops and businesses of Rome close early or don’t open at all. They are preparing for La Notte Bianca. The streets are empty for a weekend but start to fill up in the early evening. People of all ages come out. Families with young children, teenagers, seniors, groups of adults and multi generational family groups; grandparents, parents and children. Foreign tourists and Romans fill the streets of this great city.
La Notte Bianca, or in English, White Night, is held in Rome every September. The City hosts a large number of activities that go on through out the night. Restaurants, bars, clubs and historic sites stay open all night long giving Romans and visitors an opportunity to have one of the best sleepless nights around. Rome has been hosting the White Night event since 2003 and every year it gets better and better.
There is an air of excitement, celebration and energy that fills the streets of Rome. The museums are lined up and the cafes and coffee shops busy. People wander the streets looking for things to do. Visit a museum or art gallery, shop, have a coffee or drink, listen to live music. No matter where in Rome you are there is something to do or see.
An article about the 2007 White Night tells us “the Notte Bianca is a great event, always characterized by multidisciplinary characteristics, answering the needs of an urban community wishing to compete with its own heritage, its identity, its dreams...” And what a night is it.
In 2006 I attended the White Night. There were several events within walking distance of my hotel. As I strolled the streets of the city I felt like I was part of something grand. The positive energy that flowed around me carried me away with the crowds. I visited an ancient castle and watched a troupe of acrobats scale the castle walls. I listened to some great music and shared a drink with some new friends. Not once did I feel unsafe. There were plenty of people around, all having a good time. I was part of something sensational.
In 2008, the White Night will happen on Saturday, September 7th. Over 100 free events will take place all over the city of Rome. Public transportation, including increased bus service and the metro, are free after 10 pm. So when in Rome… do as the Romans do and enjoy the La Notte Bianca.
For more information about this years La Notte Bianca:
http://travelguides.lastminute.com/sisp/index.htm?fx=event&event_id=99553
http://www.whatsonwhen.com/sisp/index.htm?fx=event&event_id=99553
http://www.romaviva.com/event.htm?ev=308840385
