Sponsored by Roma Capitale, the parade is Italy’s largest showcase of marching bands and cheerleading groups from the United States, who will perform alongside Italian marching and folkloric ensembles from different regions of the country – an ideal embrace between Italy and the United States during the most festive and meaningful days of the year.
On 1 January 2026, starting at 3:30 p.m., the heart of Rome – from Piazza del Popolo to Piazza di Spagna – will turn into an open-air stage bursting with music, colour and energy. A kaleidoscope of sounds and choreography that, as every year, celebrates the encounter between cultures and traditions, offering residents and visitors alike a unique experience to start the new year in a spirit of joy and togetherness.
“Rome is preparing, as tradition dictates, to welcome this extraordinary event. From the United States and across Italy, marching bands, cheerleaders and folk ensembles will arrive. It’s an unmissable event for families, music lovers, and anyone wishing to begin the new year with cheerfulness, good humour and energy,” said Svetlana Celli, President of the Capitoline Assembly and patron of the event.
“We are proud of the Rome Parade’s ability to enliven the historic centre and engage citizens, tourists and families alike. Music brings places to life, and the images of bands marching through the most iconic landmarks of the Capital enhance our initiative and offer the world evocative scenes that reaffirm Rome as the city of great beauty – a universal heritage that unites cultures and builds paths of peace through the magic of art and music,” added Lizzie Bone.
The event will feature renowned American ensembles such as: the Disco Amigos from New Orleans; the Key West High School Band from Florida; from California, the Mission San Jose High School Warrior Marching Band and Color Guard, the Bloomington All Star Marching Band, the Esperanza Flores Ballet Folklorico and the Palm Springs High School Marching Band; the Spirit of America Productions from Dallas; from Illinois, the Waubonsie Valley High School and the Lake Zurich High School Marching Band; from New York, the Corning Painted Post High School Hawks Marching Band; while the Varsity Spirit All American represents a national U.S. initiative that brings together cheerleaders, dancers and performers who have qualified during Varsity Spirit summer camps.
Joining the many American groups will be Italian performers such as the Folkloristica Band of Bettolle, the Caferza of Giulianova, the Frustica of Faleria, and many others who will entertain Romans and tourists taking part in this moving concert. Admission to the event is free – an open invitation to families, music enthusiasts and curious visitors of all ages to enjoy an unforgettable New Year’s Day among the wonders of Rome, in the name of culture, joy and celebration.