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Is everything closed on June 2nd in Italy? (Festa della Repubblica – public holiday)

Festa della Repubblica, also known as Republic Day, is a public holiday celebrated in Italy on June 2nd each year. This holiday marks the day in 1946 when Italians voted to abolish the monarchy and establish a republic. The holiday is celebrated with parades, fireworks, and other public events throughout the country.

As with most public holidays in Italy, it is common for many businesses, including shops and restaurants, to close for the day. However, there are some exceptions, and it is essential to know what to expect if you are travelling to Italy during this time.

What is closed on Festa della Repubblica in Italy?

In general, most businesses will be closed on Festa della Repubblica, especially in smaller towns and cities. This includes shops, supermarkets, and many restaurants. It is always a good idea to check with the specific business or restaurant you are interested in visiting to see if they will be open on the holiday.

In larger cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence, many tourist attractions and shops will remain open on Festa della Repubblica, but some may have limited hours or reduced services. It is always a good idea to check with the specific attraction or shop you plan to visit to see if they will be open and what their hours will be. In addition, there may be restrictions in the run-up to and around major festivities, such as in the national capital of Rome, days beforehand.

It is also important to note that public transportation in Italy may have reduced schedules or limited services on Festa della Repubblica. This can include buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation. It is recommended to check with the specific transportation service you plan to use to see if they will be running on the holiday and what their schedule will be.

One thing to remember is that many Italians take advantage of the holiday to travel or take a long weekend away. This means that popular tourist destinations, such as beach resorts and mountain towns, may be more crowded than usual during this time.

Events during Festa della Repubblica in Italy

Despite the closures of many businesses on Festa della Repubblica, there are still plenty of things to see and do in Italy on this holiday. Many cities and towns host parades and public events to celebrate the holiday, which can be a fun way to experience Italian culture and traditions.

In Rome, for example, there is a military parade that takes place on Via dei Fori Imperiali, which is attended by many locals and tourists alike. This parade includes marching bands, military units, and other Italian pride and heritage displays. You may read more about the parade and festivities on Festa della Repubblica 2023 | Turismo Roma.

Another popular event that takes place on Festa della Repubblica is the “Palio di San Ranieri” in Pisa. This historic boat race takes place along the Arno River and features teams from different neighbourhoods of Pisa competing against each other. The event is accompanied by music, food, and other festivities, making it a fun and exciting way to experience Italian culture.

Via dei Fori Imperiali in Rome just days before Festa della Repubblica
Via dei Fori Imperiali just days before Festa della Repubblica

What to do on a public holiday in Italy

Ultimately, while many businesses may be closed on Festa della Repubblica, there are still plenty of opportunities to experience Italian culture and traditions during this holiday. By planning ahead and checking with specific businesses and attractions, travellers can make the most of their time in Italy during this special holiday.

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Disclaimer: This Article has been largely written by ChatGPT / GEM AI

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