Image credit: Futuro Avenue
If you’ve been dreaming of an Italian escape (or if you’ve recently turned that dream into reality, much like many fellow Adelaidians), you’re in for a treat as a taste of la dolce vita makes its way to South Australia.
From November 10th to 19th, South Australians are invited to the fourth annual Adelaide Italian Festival, which features a jam-packed program of over 70 captivating events.
With a vision to become the world’s preeminent Italian festival outside of Italy itself, the Adelaide Italian Festival will showcase the best flavours, sights, and sounds of Italy. It’s a tribute to world-class Italian cuisine, exceptional wines, art, fashion, culture, music, and enduring traditions.
The first Italian Festival in Adelaide was held in 1976 in Rundle Mall – a parade made up of migrant
families travelling from Victoria Square to Elder Park before ending with celebrations in Rundle Mall.
Originally called The Italian Festival, and later known as “Carnevale”, the Adelaide Italian Festival
returned to its original name to honour those who have come before them.
This year’s program is a record-breaker, offering a diverse array of events, from regional dinners to immersive cooking classes.
“With a mixture of both free and ticketed events, this year’s program has something for all to enjoy,
from the foodies to the car enthusiasts, to those who love to explore and delve into cultures other
than their own,” Tania Milohis, Chair of the Adelaide Italian Festival, says.
“We are thrilled that this year’s program is our biggest yet with over 70 events – from having 20
events in 2020 to 40 events in 2021, to 60 in 2022, it’s great to see the participation increasing each
year, thanks to the support of community clubs, businesses, and the wider community,” Tania
continued.
The festival’s itinerary kicks off with the signature pre-event, “La Grande Gita.” It’s a family-friendly Italian-style bike ride through the picturesque Barossa, with tempting local food and wine offerings to delight the senses.
Throughout the ten days, you can look forward to a wide array of signature events. The “Opening Night Street Party” will magically transform Adelaide’s East End into a slice of little Italy for a night of revelry. The “Journey Mass” held at St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral pays tribute to the state’s Italian migrants, weaving a beautiful tapestry of tradition and community. Meanwhile, “Autoclassica,” an all-Italian car and motorbike show, will take over Festival Plaza, offering automotive enthusiasts a visual feast. The festival will conclude with a grand “Closing Gala Dinner,” promising an “Una Bellissima Serata,” or a truly beautiful evening.
As Tania Milohis points out, “Our vision for the festival is to invite people of all backgrounds to immerse themselves into Italian culture. Our aim is to transform Adelaide into little Italy for ten days and we want to give people an experience and memories with a classic Italian flavour.”
Other program highlights include:
Bella Notte at Bobbi’s Bar & Restaurant| Saturday 11 November
Immerse yourself in the culinary splendour of Italy at the Adelaide Italian Festival’s
enchanting event – Bella Notte at Bobbi’s.
Fashion with Flavour: A Showcase of Style! | Sunday 12 November
Prepare to elevate your style at the ultimate Sunday afternoon event as Italia Ceramics
undergoes a transformation into a haven for style enthusiasts. Co-hosted by dynamic duo and Adelaide Italian Festival Ambassadors, Cimon Vozzo, Adelaide Stylist, and Elizabeth Barbaro of Adelaide Gal.
The Grape Escape | Sunday 12 November
A fun-filled day in the sun visiting stunning McLaren Vale. Chartered buses will take guests
from Adelaide to selected Italo-Australian wineries, visiting McLaren Vale’s main street along
the way. Festivities continue to an afternoon ‘Aperi-pranzo’ with bocce and music at By
Fabiano Winery.
Il Viaggio at Nazareth College | Wednesday 15 November
A migration exhibition featuring migration stories and keynote speakers from different
generations.
The Marriage of Figaro by State Opera South Australia | 16 – 25 November
Save the date for a funny, scandalous, and romantic night at the opera! A timeless
masterpiece where mistaken identities, cheating scandals, and forbidden secrets burst at the
seams with invention, wit, and Mozart’s vibrant music.
Nonna’s Flea Market |Sunday 19 November
A community flea market where stall holders can sell Nonna’s bric-a`-brac:, bomboniere of
the 80’s, starched doilies, records, books, souvenir tea towels. In fact, everything you need
to live “la dolce vita” inspired by Nonna. Free entry.
Italian Cuisine with Altitude | Sunday 19 November
Experience a unique cultural journey at the Fogolar Furlan club, featuring 4 regional clubs
from the north-east of Italy promoting their best traditional food & entertainment.
Adelaide Italian Festival
Where: Various locations around SA
When: 10-19 November
The program and all ticket information are also available to view online here.
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