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Festival Verdi 2026 – Opera, art and flavours in Parma

Every October, Parma and Busseto become the worldwide center of the Verdian universe. The Festival Verdi is a unique opportunity to experience opera in the very places that best tell the story of Giuseppe Verdi’s life.
As the Festival’s Tour Operator Partner, Parma Incoming guides travelers and opera lovers through this extraordinary event, combining music, culture, and outstanding gastronomy.

Official program 2026

The 2026 edition presents a rich and refined lineup, featuring five major productions across the two iconic theaters of the region.

Alzira – Teatro Regio di Parma – 1, 8, 17 October
Aida – Teatro Verdi in Busseto – 2, 9, 16, 25 October
Nabucodonosor – Teatro Regio di Parma – 3, 11, 18, 24 October
Gala Verdiano – Teatro Regio di Parma – 10 October
Messa da Requiem – Teatro Regio di Parma – 23 October

The Festival Verdi 2026 opens with Alzira, a rare gem of Verdi’s repertoire returning to the stage of the Teatro Regio di Parma after more than twenty years. This new production, presented in the critical edition by Stefano Castelvecchi and Jonathan Cheskin, marks the beginning of a rediscovery project the Festival intends to cultivate in the coming years. Next come two absolute masterpieces: Aida, presented in the intimate Teatro Giuseppe Verdi in Busseto with the extraordinary direction of Franco Zeffirelli, and Nabucodonosor, returning to the Teatro Regio di Parma in the critical edition curated by Roger Parker. All three operas will be performed using the scientific publications of the University of Chicago Press and Casa Ricordi, ensuring authentic and deeply inspired interpretations. Completing the program are the Gala Verdiano, the Messa da Requiem, and the Ramificazioni series.

The Festival comes to life from its very first day with the Verdi Street Parade, which opens the event by filling the city center with music and celebration. This is followed by the vibrant Verdi Off calendar, bringing performances, concerts, installations, and creativity into theaters, squares, museums, and unexpected places.