Il Picchio Rosso Celebrates 50 Years: A Legacy of Music and Nightlife

Formigine, Italy – Il Picchio Rosso, a legendary nightclub, is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary this May. The venue, which became an iconic landmark for music lovers in the region and beyond, was founded on March 13, 1976, in Formigine.

A Half-Century of Music and Memories

The celebration will take place on Sunday, May 24th, at Parco Campani, the area where the original Picchio Rosso once stood. The event aims to recreate the atmosphere of the past and honor the club’s founder, Mario Boni, who passed away in October 2023.

A Day-Long Celebration

The anniversary event will kick off at 3:00 PM, featuring a DJ contest for young talent, mirroring the Picchio Rosso’s tradition of showcasing emerging artists. Throughout the day and evening, a lineup of guest artists will perform, including historical DJs from the club such as Luca Zanarini and Marco Baroni. Baroni will also be presenting a new version of a song dedicated to Il Picchio Rosso.

Remembering Mario Boni

The event also marks the official launch of the “Remember Picchio Rosso 2026” tour, which will extend throughout the province of Modena and beyond. The celebration is a tribute to Mario Boni’s vision and legacy, recognizing his significant contribution to the Italian nightlife scene. Boni founded not only Il Picchio Rosso but also “Picchio Verde” in Carpi and “Piccadilly Strixy” (later Matrix and Goya) in Sassuolo.

A Look Back at Il Picchio Rosso’s History

Il Picchio Rosso quickly became a cultural icon, attracting both local and national audiences. The club’s success stemmed from its innovative approach to entertainment, offering a space for music and social interaction. The venue hosted numerous international stars throughout its history. A photographic exhibition will also be held at “21”, the location where the original discotheque stood.