BLQ:
Bologna Set to Host Two Major Events in October 2025:
The Bologna Motor Show and Ocarina Festival

October 2025 promises to be a spectacular month for Bologna, as the city gears up to host two major events that celebrate the region's rich cultural and automotive heritage. From October 23–26, 2025, the Bologna Motor Show will take center stage, showcasing vintage cars and motorcycles, while the Ocarina Festival in the nearby town of Budrio will shine a spotlight on the unique sounds of the traditional terracotta wind instrument. These two events are set to attract enthusiasts from around the world and provide visitors with a dynamic experience that spans both the world of classic automobiles and the traditional music of the region.

Bologna Motor Show: A Tribute to Automotive Heritage

The Bologna Motor Show, renowned for its historical significance in the world of motorsports and automobiles, will return in 2025 with a focus on vintage cars and motorcycles. As one of Italy's most anticipated automotive events, the show will celebrate the region’s long-standing connection to the automotive industry and its role in shaping Italy’s position as a global leader in car design and engineering.

The 2025 edition of the Motor Show will feature a wide range of classic vehicles, including rare vintage cars, motorcycles, and iconic models from the golden age of automotive design. Visitors can expect to see meticulously restored vehicles from renowned Italian brands such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati, as well as legendary international manufacturers. The event will also provide a platform for collectors and enthusiasts to showcase their prized vehicles and engage in discussions about automotive history, restoration, and preservation.

In addition to the impressive array of vintage vehicles, the Motor Show will offer test drives, exhibitions, and expert-led seminars, providing visitors with an in-depth look at the evolution of automotive technology and design. Special sections of the event will be dedicated to the history of motorcycles, highlighting the evolution of Italian and international bike engineering. With an extensive program of activities, the Bologna Motor Show will appeal to both casual fans and serious collectors, making it a must-visit event for anyone interested in the history and future of automotive innovation.

The Ocarina Festival in Budrio: A Celebration of Tradition and Music

While the Bologna Motor Show will attract car and motorcycle aficionados, just outside the city, the Ocarina Festival in Budrio, a town renowned for its connection to the traditional wind instrument, will provide a captivating cultural experience for music lovers. Running alongside the Motor Show from October 23–26, 2025, the Ocarina Festival will showcase performances, workshops, and exhibitions focused on the ocarina, a terracotta wind instrument with deep roots in Italian folklore.

Budrio, located just a short drive from Bologna, is known as the birthplace of the ocarina, an instrument that has been played for centuries across Italy and beyond. The festival will bring together world-class musicians, craftsmen, and enthusiasts to celebrate the ocarina's unique sound and history. The event will feature live performances from both traditional and contemporary ocarina players, providing a fascinating fusion of old and new musical styles.

In addition to the concerts, visitors will have the opportunity to visit workshops where artisans demonstrate the traditional craft of making ocarinas from terracotta, a technique that has been passed down through generations. Special sessions will also be dedicated to learning how to play the ocarina, offering attendees the chance to engage with the instrument and understand its place in Italian musical heritage.

The festival will be a vibrant celebration of Italy's cultural richness, drawing visitors not only from across Italy but from around the world who are eager to experience the beauty of this unique instrument. For those interested in the history of traditional music and craftsmanship, the Ocarina Festival offers an unmissable opportunity to dive deep into this ancient musical tradition.

A Dynamic October in Bologna

Together, the Bologna Motor Show and the Ocarina Festival will create a dynamic and engaging atmosphere in October 2025, offering something for every visitor. Whether you're an automotive enthusiast exploring vintage cars and motorcycles or a music lover immersed in the soulful sounds of the ocarina, Bologna and Budrio will be the places to be in late October.

Both events celebrate Italy’s rich cultural heritage, from the iconic automotive industry to its musical traditions. The Bologna Motor Show will highlight the cutting-edge innovation and history of Italian and global car culture, while the Ocarina Festival will offer an intimate and reflective experience of Italy’s deep musical roots. Together, they form a unique pairing that showcases the diversity of Italy’s cultural and artistic expressions.

With Bologna serving as a central hub for these events, visitors will have the added benefit of experiencing the city’s renowned architecture, world-class cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere while enjoying these incredible celebrations of Italian heritage. From classic cars to terracotta instruments, October 2025 in Bologna will be a month to remember.