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Guide to summer concerts 2025 in Ferrara
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Ferrara once again proves to be a city bursting with musical energy for summer 2025, offering something for every taste. From internationally renowned artists to emerging indie talents, from long-standing festivals to new concert series, the city’s music scene presents a rich and diverse calendar. This guide, designed to be updated throughout the season, highlights the key live music events from May to August, complete with useful tips, suggestions, and a few curiosities.
Summer Concert Guide 2025: Discover All the Best Live Music Events in Ferrara
As tradition dictates, the summer kicks off with Rockafe, taking place from May 28 to June 8 in Malborghetto di Boara. Since 1993, this festival has marked the symbolic start of Ferrara’s musical summer with a lineup that mixes cover bands and historic names from the Italian alternative scene. Among the most anticipated acts is the return of Persiana Jones, icons of 90s Italian ska punk, who are back with a new album after a sixteen-year hiatus.
From June 2 to July 17, Ferrara’s Darsena comes alive with the latest edition of “Un Fiume di Musica,” a concert series organized by the Scuola di Musica Moderna. The lineup ranges from jazz to blues, including both classical ensembles and original projects. One of the standout events is the live performance by British cult band Nine Below Zero, scheduled for June 16 at Teatro Nuovo in case of rain.
Ferrara Sotto le Stelle once again lives up to its name as a festival of refined tastes. Though centered around mid-June, the program extends into autumn. From June 10 to 17, concerts will be held in the courtyard of the Este Castle. This year’s highlights include performances by Stereolab, Tinariwen, Ani Di Franco, and a rare reunion of Offlaga Disco Pax—already sold out—one of the summer’s most emotionally charged moments. Also not to be missed is the farewell tour stop of UK band Porridge Radio, concluding a decade-long musical journey.
The Ferrara Summer Festival runs from June 17 to July 11, with all events this year held in the iconic Piazza Ariostea. It’s the city’s most mainstream music festival, welcoming major acts like Slipknot, Massive Attack, Sfera Ebbasta, Alessandra Amoroso, and Tananai. Worth noting are the tribute night to Ennio Morricone—conducted by his son Andrea with the Orchestra Città di Ferrara—and the highly anticipated debut of Massive Attack in Ferrara after the cancellation of their 2022 show.
For reggae lovers, the Zion Festival is a must. Held from July 3 to 6 at the Ai Due Laghi agritourism site in Gambulaga, this high-quality event offers a deep dive into dub culture with guests like Iration Steppas Sound System and legendary Jamaican artist Linval Thompson—an immersive experience in music and nature.
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Ph. Federico Vecchiattini, Sara Tosi, Pierluigi Benini e Un Fiume di Musica
More niche but with a strong and cohesive identity is the Distruggi La Bassa Festival, taking place July 25–26 at Agriturismo Prato Pozzo in Anita di Argenta. This punk-centric event champions DIY spirit, inclusivity, and community, making it a nationally recognized highlight for genre enthusiasts.
Closing out the summer season is Acido Acida, running from August 28 to 31 in the cloister of Santa Maria della Consolazione. Dedicated to British craft beer, this beloved festival combines quality tastings with concerts and DJ sets. Featured artists this year include Andy Smith (former Portishead DJ), La Banda LoSKA, Gaznevada, and other standout acts from the alt music scene.
Ferrara also hosts the semifinals and final of the “A Voice for Europe” singing contest. Preliminary rounds will take place in early June at Sala Estense, with the grand finale scheduled for August 28 in Piazza Castello. A perfect event for discovering tomorrow’s vocal talents live on stage.
There’s truly something for everyone. Ferrara’s summer 2025 music calendar is rich, welcoming, and full of unforgettable experiences—don’t miss a beat and keep an eye on our events agenda!