Here are the festivals and events that happen each August in Rome.
August 5 - Festa della Madonna della Neve. The Feast of the "Madonna of the Snow" celebrates the miraculous August snow that fell in the 4th century, thereby signaling the faithful to build the church of Santa Maria Maggiore. A re-enactment of the event is carried out with white flower petals.
August 15 - Ferragosto. The traditional beginning of the summer holidays for most Italians, Ferragosto, which falls on the religious holiday of Assumption, is the time when many Romans head to the beach or mountains for a few weeks of relaxation away from the stress of the city. For those who stay in town, there are dance and music festivals on this day. Read more about the Ferragosto holiday.
All Summer - Outdoor Music and other performances happen throughout the summer in Rome. Estate Romana lists some summer performances and events. At Castel Sant' Angelo you'll find music and performances in the evenings through August 15. Concerts take place in Rome's squares and parks and opera and dance performances are often held in the ancient Baths of Caracalla during summer, too.
July through September - Isola del Cinema Wide-screen movies are shown outdoors nearly every night during summer on Tiberina Island. This is also part of Estate Romana, or Roman summer.
Continue Reading: Rome in September