As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Home / Historical Periods / Imperial Rome / Roman Festivals and Public Entertainment

Phase

Roman Festivals and Public Entertainment

27 BCE–300 CE

The Roman calendar included public rites, theatrical performances, races and games funded by magistrates or emperors. Festivals altered normal work, traffic and legal routines.

Events such as the Cerealia and Saturnalia brought crowds into streets and venues, creating opportunities for commerce, political display and crime. Theatre could include violent mythological spectacle.

The Ides of April, A Comedy of Terrors and Desperate Undertaking use festival organisation and public performance as integral parts of their mysteries.

Related people for Roman Festivals and Public Entertainment

Books

9 Best Novels About Roman Festivals and Public Entertainment

Bestselling authors first, then star rating.