There is excitement in the air: the Rome Bar Show come back May 26 and 27, 2025 with its fifth edition, and it does so in grand style. Not only for the packed program of masterclasses, tastings and international meetings, but for a novelty that marks a turning point in the Italian trade fair panorama: Parma Fairs officially joins the corporate structure of the event, bringing with him a consolidated heritage of experience in the agri-food sector and a clear vision for the future of beverage and mixology.
Roma Bar Show: the entrance of Fiere di Parma and the growing interest in mixology
After having successfully experimented with a pavilion dedicated to the world of bars during AllFood in Milan — also through the acquisition of Mixology Experience — Fiere di Parma is now taking a decisive step, establishing itself as a strategic player in the spirits sector. The entry into the share capital of the Roma Bar Show marks the start of a broader project: cobstruct an integrated trade fair hub, which brings together food, beverage and hospitality, promoting Made in Italy in an international context.
As underlined by the CEO Antonio Cellie, it's not just about organizing events, but about create permanent platforms where innovation, quality and networking come together to anticipate global market trends.
An evolution that fits perfectly into the identity trajectory of the Roma Bar Show, as underlined Andrea Fofi, among the founders and current CEO of the event: “It is a point of arrival, but also a new beginning. Like a good distillate, the Roma Bar Show needs time, care and vision to express its full potential.”
And indeed, this fifth edition promises to be a key moment for the sector. Eur Congress Palace returns to be the beating heart of the event, which already in the last edition attracted over 15,000 visitors and more than 200 companies. And thanks to the International Buyers Program, launched together with ICE – Agenzia e Fiere di Parma, the 2025 edition aims straight at consolidating Rome among the world capitals of hospitality and the bar industry, opening the dialogue with operators from twelve countries.
As he reiterated Matthew Zoppas, president of ICE, “it is essential to invest in selected fairs and create strategic connections that enhance the most promising sectors of Made in Italy, such as spirits, which grew in 2024 to reach 1.7 billion euros in exports.”
Thematic areas
With over 10,000 square meters of exhibition space, the Roma Bar Show offers a unique experience that combines tastings, masterclasses, technical seminars and talks with the protagonists of global mixology. The event is dedicated to both industry professionals and enthusiasts, promoting the culture of responsible drinking and innovation in the world of beverages.
Also this year the Roma Bar Show will be divided into different thematic areas, each with a well-defined identity:
- Auditorium – Masterclasses with great international names such as Tristan Stephenson and Marian Beke
- RBS Academy – Technical seminars with world-renowned professionals, including Iain McPherson and Dave Arnold
- Tasting Room – Guided tastings to explore the history and quality of iconic brands
- Tasting Room Jigger – Focus on new mixing techniques and product innovations
The Roma Bar Show is not limited to exhibition spaces: with the Sideshow, cocktail bars, historic cafés and hotel terraces become widespread stages for unique experiences and encounters with the most interesting figures in global mixology.
The appointment with the Rome Bar Show Awards, the award that celebrates the best of Italian hospitality. Seven categories in competition, with an absolute novelty for 2025: Best Historic Cafes & Bars. Also expected is a Lifetime Achievement Award, an acknowledgement that becomes a symbolic passing of the baton within the sector.
In synergy with theDepartment of Major Events, Sports, Tourism and Fashion of Rome Capital, the Roma Bar Show renews its commitment to the promoting conscious drinking. A public campaign, launched with the support of the Municipality of Rome, promotes moderation and respect, affirming a positive and sustainable model for the entire sector.
Still in the spirit of social responsibility, a new basketball court will be inaugurated in the Garbatella neighborhood on June 14, thanks to the sponsorship of JD Sports and street artist Camilla Falsini: a concrete gesture to give back space and value to the community.
Practical information
- Date: May 26 and 27, 2025
- Timetables: May 26th from 10:00 to 19:00 / May 27th from 11:00 to 19:00
- Place: Congress Palace, Piazza John Kennedy 1, Rome
Tickets available online, with daily options or double-day passes.
