November was not immediately thought to be the best time of year to visit Rome, as this is when the weather starts to get cold, and it can rain. Although Rome is popular with tourists throughout the year, November is a month when Romans often have the Eternal City to themselves. It is a good time to enjoy the season of theater and concerts, as well as various religious celebrations.
All Saints
On this holiday on November 1, Italians remember their deceased loved ones by visiting graves and cemeteries. On this solemn occasion, many Romans visit local churches for special celebrations and visit the city’s famous Roman catacombs, the underground tunnels where the citizens of ancient Rome were buried. All Souls Day on November 2 is not an official Italian national holiday, but is also observed by Italians who bring flowers to cemeteries.
Rome Jazz Festival
For more than 40 years, this festival of jazz concerts has been held at the Auditorium Parco della Musica in Rome, usually during the first week of November. The week-long jazz celebration offers something for everyone, with Italian and international jazz stars serving up an eclectic mix. Past artists include vocalist Gregory Porter, the Dhafer Youssef Quartet, and Australian Grammy winner Sarah Mckenzie. On three Sundays in November you can attend free musical performances at the Teatro di Villa Torlonia.
Romaeuropa Festival
During the months of October and November, the Romaeuropa Festival presents cultural events in various locations in Rome. The extensive program includes contemporary music concerts, inventive dance performances, and live theater performances.
Rome Film Festival
From the end of October until the first week of November, the Rome Film Fest organizes international film screenings, panels, classes and other film-related events. The full line-up is announced to the public through the press in early October. Just one of many Italian film festivals, this one has featured, in the past, renowned Hollywood directors such as Wes Anderson, Jonathan Demme and Martin Scorcese, as well as many Italian and international directors and actors. Events are held at the Auditorium Parco della Musica and other venues throughout Rome.
Feast of Saint Cecilia
On November 22, the Romans celebrate a favorite local saint, Cecilia, the patron saint of musicians. His feast is celebrated in the church of Santa Cecilia in the Trastevere neighborhood of Rome, as well as in the Catacombs of San Calixto. The 9th century church in Trastevere is said to have been erected on the site of the home of Cecilia, an upper-class woman who lived in the 3rd century. The church contains a beautiful fresco by Cavallini and a moving statue of Saint Cecilia by Stefano Maderno. The church is open to the public throughout the year.
