Thousands of Vespas parade in Rome for 80th anniversary

Thousands of Vespa enthusiasts from around the world converged on Rome on Saturday, June 27, 2026, for a grand parade celebrating the iconic Italian scooter's 80th anniversary. The event was the culmination of a four-day festival that saw riders from at least 67 countries navigate the city's historic center, passing landmarks like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum in a colorful, humming procession.

The "Vespa Roma 2026" celebrations began on Thursday, June 25, with the opening of a dedicated "Vespa Village" at the Foro Italico sports complex. The festivities culminated in Saturday's parade, which was officially set in motion by Rome's mayor, Roberto Gualtieri. The procession featured more than 160 different Vespa models tracing the brand's evolution from its 1946 debut to the present day. Organizers estimated that between 10,000 and 25,000 riders and their scooters participated, creating a vibrant spectacle that drew applause from residents and tourists.

The Vespa, whose name means "wasp" in Italian, was created by the Piaggio company in the aftermath of World War II. Originally conceived as an affordable and practical mode of transport, it quickly became a symbol of Italy's...