Map
VIP tickets

Melbourne Italian
Festa 2024

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST MIF24
close x
download

Brochure

Enter Your Info Below And We Will Send
You The Brochure To Your Inbox!

Thank you!
Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form

brochure
introduction

The Festa is back in 2024!
You are invited to celebrate
all things Italian!

In 2023 more than 35,000 came to the Royal Exhibition Building and the Museum Plaza in Carlton to enjoy a day of fun dedicated to Italy and its excellences.

The Melbourne Italian Festa is a magical gathering where the Italian community and everyone who's head over heels for Italian culture come together.

Picture this: mouthwatering food, delicious wines and beers, lively music that makes you dance like no one's watching, and a vibrant atmosphere that screams "La Dolce Vita."

It's not just an event; it's a celebration of everything that makes Italy so irresistibly charming.

So, if you're all about good food, great company, and a splash of that Italian flair, this festa's got your name on it!

Organiser
Partners
Naming and Main Sponsor
MUSEUM PLAZA

Piazze Italiane

Italian Lifestyle

Outside, the excitement roars on with a stage hosting lively mass entertainment that'll make your heart race. Dance to both traditional and modern beats, soaking in the contagious energy.

Imagine a bustling Italian piazza, where food vendors tempt you with authentic flavours. Kids and families bond over games, while car and bike exhibitions rev any enthusiast's engine.

  • stage with dance floor
  • food & drinks vendors
  • liquor licensed area
  • kid games & playground
  • food courts
  • resting areas
  • street art & buskers
ROYAL EXHIBITION BUILDING

Salotti Italiani

Excellences in display

There's a vibrant stage showcasing the inspiring talents of young Italians, along with sophisticated live performances that'll leave you speechless.

If you're a foodie, you're in for a treat with cooking demos. Plus, dive into a world of flavours at the food and beverage stalls, explore Italian artistry and crafts, and immerse yourself in captivating art, fashion and design displays.

  • stage with seatings
  • food & wine stalls
  • craft & manufacturing stalls
  • art, fashion & design displays
  • cooking demo
  • slow food corner
  • tourism & clubs
ROYAL EXHIBITION BUILDING

Wine Tasting Area

Italian wines to taste and buy

Italian wines are worldwide recognised as the most diverse variety in the world. Come and taste more than 50 wines presented by some of the best importers along with local producers of Italian varietals in Australia.

Picture charming stalls adorned with twinkling lights, offering unique gifts, festive treats, and a warm, inviting atmosphere that will transport you straight to an Italian winter wonderland.

  • ticketed reserved area
  • unlimited tastings
  • more than 50 wines presented
  • imported Italian wines
  • Italian varietals produced in Australia
  • snacks and water
  • seatings
  • VIP Wine Degustation Experience
ROYAL EXHIBITION BUILDING

Fiera del Panettone

Panettone Festival - First time in Australia

Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of Italy at the Fiera del Panettone, where the best Italian artisans crafting panettone in Australia come together to celebrate this beloved treat.

This event isn't just about Christmas; it's a celebration of the versatility and diversity of panettone, showcasing how this delectable delicacy can be a part of everyday culinary delights.  

  • stage with seatings
  • food & wine stalls
  • craft & manufacturing stalls
  • art, fashion & design displays
  • cooking demo
  • slow food corner
  • tourism & clubs
Schedule

2023 Program

Etiam tristique, metus pretium rutrum elementum, risus tortor euismod urna, porta felis felis vel dui in bibendum justo vel pellentesque accumsan.

MC JAMES LIOTTA

James will guide, entertain, and amuse you all day long introducing all the artists and making your day at the Festa be memorable

11:00 am
11:30 am

Italian Zumba

Shake and groove to Italian beats in this lively fitness session to start the Festa with energy! Join us!

11:00 am
9:00 pm

Italo Disco Bar with Stefano Marciano

Enjoy the vibe of Italian music by DJ Stefano Marciano and eat your time away tasting delicacies and drinks

11:30 am
12:00 pm

Vocal Art Studio

Enjoy enchanting vocal performances from young talents showcasing Italian and international music.

12:00 pm
12:15 pm

Veneto Club Choir

An inspiring choral presentation by the Veneto Club Choir, celebrating Italian culture through music.

12:15 pm
12:45 pm

Italian Zumba

Shake and groove to Italian beats in this lively fitness session to start the Festa with energy! Join us!

1:00 pm
2:00 pm

Formal Opening - LIVE STREAMING FROM INDOOR

A grand inauguration ceremony to kickstart the Melbourne Italian Festa with style and elegance.

1:45 pm
2:15 pm

Beat the Heat around Carlton Gardens

A sizzling roving performance with fiery dances and rhythms will bring love and live from the indoor stage to the Carlton Gardens

2:15 pm
3:00 pm

Segmento Tarantella Sona

Directly from Italy, be captivated by the energetic and traditional Tarantella dance in this mesmerizing performance.

3:00 pm
3:30 pm

Beat the Heat Marching

A sizzling roving performance with fiery dances and rhythms will bring love and live across the Carlton Gardens

3:30 pm
4:00 pm

pane amore e samba

Experience the fusion of Brazilian Samba and the voice of Ilaria Crociani for a revival of musics we all know.

4:15 pm
5:00 pm

Sarah C., Dom Bagnato and paul tuisaint with Rob Severini Band

An exclusive Italian jazz duet marvellously accompained by Rob Severini and his Band

5:15 pm
6:00 pm

Santa Taranta

A modern twist on Southern traditional dances, showcasing Italian folklore with a contemporary edge.

6:15 pm
6:45 pm

Lissa Dawson

A soulful musical performance by the talented Lissa Dawson, serenading the crowd.

7:00 pm
8:00 pm

Siesta Cartel

Unwind with up-beat tunes and melodies in a energetic musical performance.

8:00 pm
9:00 pm

DJ Mark Pellegrini with Joanne

DJ Mark Pellegrini with a special performance by Joanne performing her smash single Jackie

11:00 am
11:15 am

Il Girotondo by CO.AS.IT.

Join families and kids to support our youngest members of the community (3-5 yo) for their Chrismas Songs

11:15 am
11:30 am

Armando The Magician

Be amazed by the magical performance of Mago Armando, wowing the crowd with mesmerizing tricks.

11:30 am
11:45 am

Doposcuola by CO.AS.IT.

Primary school kids from CO.AS.IT. Doposcuola will share with us their joyful melodies in Italian guided by their lovely teachers.

11:45 am
12:00 pm

Armando The Magician

Be amazed by the magical performance of Mago Armando, wowing the crowd with mesmerizing tricks.

12:00 pm
12:30 pm

Kids Movies

Enjoy family-friendly Italian films at the festival to entertain the little ones.

12:30 pm
12:45 pm

Veneto Club Choir

An inspiring choral presentation by the Veneto Club Choir, celebrating Italian culture through music.

1:00 pm
2:00 pm

Formal Opening indoor stage

A grand inauguration ceremony to kickstart the Melbourne Italian Festa with style and elegance.

1:15 pm
1:30 pm

Victorian Opera Singers

Experience the operatic elegance of the Victorian Opera Singers in a captivating performance.

2:30 pm
3:30 pm

Music from Movies - Bravo Nino Rota

A musical journey through Nino Rota's iconic film compositions performed live by renowned pianist Peter Dasent and four musicians

4:00 pm
4:45 pm

Music from Movies - Carneval Strings

A lively orchestral performance by a string quartet featuring the music from Italian iconic films.

5:30 pm
6:30 pm

Music from Movies - Extasy Morricone

Dive into the world of Ennio Morricone's cinematic melodies with this enchanting live performance by seven brilliant Italian and Australian musicians

6:45 pm
7:30 pm

Music from Movies - Piero & Piero

Immerse yourself in the harmonious world of Piero Umiliani and Piero Piccioni's film scores.

11:15 am
11:30 pm

Veneto Club Choir Indoor

An inspiring choral presentation by the Veneto Club Choir, celebrating Italian culture through music.

11:30 am
12:00 pm

Proverbi in dialetto Siciliano e Calabrese

History and origin of proverbs from Sicily and Calabria regions.

12:00 pm
12:45 pm

Jaclyn Crupi and Pasta Love

A delectable culinary performance by Jaclyn Crupi, presenting her book and sharing her love for Italian pasta recipes.

2:00 pm
2:45 pm

Paula Bacchia and Crostoli

Delight in Istrian culinary recipes as Paula Bacchia presents her book and prepares crispy crostoli, delicate sheets of fried dough, dusted in powdered sugar.

3:00 pm
3:30 pm

Riccardo Siligato and Arancini all'Amatriciana

Get ready to learn the secret behind the making of Amatriciana arancini, Riccardo, founder of Arancini Art, will teach you some secrets

3:45 pm
4:30 pm

Gaetano Scalise and Calabrese Risotto

From ACCA - Australian Calabrese Cultural Association, Gaetano will present a "hot" version of Italian risotto

4:45 pm
5:15 pm

Alessandra D'Angelo and Caponata

With her heart and soul still in Sicily, Alessandra, founder of Funghi e Tartufo Italian vegan restaurant, will show your the art of making Caponata

5:30 pm
6:15 pm

Maurizio Manzi and Gelato al Panettone

Learn the difference between industrial and artisan gelato and how to make it at home with healthy ingredients

ticketed areas program

2023 Wine Experiences

Etiam tristique, metus pretium rutrum elementum, risus tortor euismod urna, porta felis felis vel dui in bibendum justo vel pellentesque accumsan.

11:00 am
1:00 pm

Wine Tasting Session 11.00am

Enjoy 2-hour access to the VIP Wine Tasting Area with more than 50 wines available for tasting, unlimited wine tastings - snacks - VIP indoor resting area

1:30 pm
3:30 pm

Wine Tasting Session 1.30pm

Enjoy 2-hour access to the VIP Wine Tasting Area with more than 50 wines available for tasting, unlimited wine tastings - snacks - VIP indoor resting area

4:00 pm
6:00 pm

Wine Tasting Session 4.00pm

Enjoy 2-hour access to the VIP Wine Tasting Area with more than 50 wines available for tasting, unlimited wine tastings - snacks - VIP indoor resting area

4:00 pm
8:00 pm

VIP Degustation Experience

Enjoy your VIP entry to 4pm wine tasting session with unlimited tastings and VIP indoor relaxing area, followed by sit-down guided wine tasting at 6.45pm with paired appetisers - sommelier presentations

features

2023 Activations

The range of activations encompasses every imaginable facet of Italian culture, from street food to slow food, wine and cocktails, music and art, as well as fashion and design.

Cannoli & Gelato Carts

Satisfy your sweet tooth at our Cannoli & Gelato Carts. Freshly made cannolis and authentic Italian gelato await you.

Salumi & Porchetta Bar

Indulge in the finest Italian meats at our Salumi & Porchetta Bar. From cured hams to roasted pork, a gastronomic delight is guaranteed.

Italian Library by IIC

Discover literary gems in our Italian Library curated by the Italian Institute of Culture. A haven for book lovers!

Soccer and Bikes

Celebrate Italy's love for soccer and cycling. Participate in friendly matches or simply enjoy the spectacle.

FIAT Cars Display

Discover the heritage of FIAT, Italy's renowned automaker. A showcase featuring classic to modern FIAT cars awaits you.

Alfa Romeo Cars Display

Feast your eyes on a stunning display of Alfa Romeo cars. Discover the craftsmanship and elegance of Italy's iconic automaker.

Playing Cards With Our Seniors

Join our senior community members for a fun and engaging card game session. Experience Italian traditions passed down through generations.

Calvino Exhibition by IIC

Explore the genius of Italian writer Italo Calvino in this exhibition curated by the Italian Institute of Culture.

Carlton Football Heros

Celebrate the legends of Carlton Football Club! Meet your heroes, get autographs, and relive iconic moments.

DJs and Dance Music

Get ready to dance the night away with live DJ sets featuring Italian dance music. Perfect for both casual and avid dancers!

Fashion Display

Witness the elegance of Italian fashion at our display area. A curated selection of Italy's top designs await you.

Community & Clubs

Join local Italian communities and clubs to share experiences, resources, and celebrate Italy’s rich cultural heritage.

Italian Movies & Music

Immerse yourself in Italian culture through film and music. Catch classic movies and groove to tunes from Italy's finest musicians.

Mocktail Bar

For a non-alcoholic treat, visit our Mocktail Bar. Savor Italian-inspired mocktails crafted with fresh ingredients and love.

Cooking Books Presentations

Discover the secrets of Italian cooking from renowned chefs and authors. Get your cooking books signed and take home culinary inspiration.

Ticketed VIP Wine Degustation

Elevate your wine-tasting journey with a VIP experience. Gain exclusive access to rare Italian wines and expert sommeliers.

Coffee & Resting Areas

Need a break? Enjoy authentic Italian coffee while you recharge in our cozy resting spots.

Panettone Festival

Celebrate Italy's beloved Christmas bread, Panettone! Enjoy tastings, workshops, and discover the rich history behind this festive treat.

Ticketed Wine Tasting Area

Indulge in a curated wine-tasting experience, accessible only with a ticket. Sample the finest Italian wines in an intimate setting.

Street Food & Trucks

Indulge in mouth-watering Italian street food. From pastries to pasta, we've got it all!

Sport & Action

Get active, Italian style! Try your hand at traditional Italian sports and games.

Outdoor Stage

Get ready for an electrifying experience! Our outdoor stage features a dynamic mix of performances.

Roving Entertainment

Look around, surprises await! Street performers and entertainers make every corner exciting.

Italian Festive Market

Stroll through a bustling market filled with Italian crafts, food, and merchandise. Shop 'til you drop!

Kids & Family Areas

A paradise for our youngest guests! Games, workshops, and activities that make it a family day out.

Indoor Stage

Step inside for a captivating line-up of performances. Music, dance, and more—the heart of Italian culture.

Cooking Demos

Witness the magic of Italian cuisine! Live cooking demos that bring Italy's culinary secrets to life.

Cocktail Bars

Sip on Italy's finest cocktails crafted by expert mixologists. A flavor adventure you won't forget!

tickets

Wine Tastings & VIP Degustation

If you want to add flair to fun, just get a ticket and enjoy the experience from a different level!

$
25
VIP Wine Tasting

Get entrance to VIP Wine Tasting area and enjoy the Festa from a prominent position

Unlimited wine tastings

Select your 2-hour session:
11:00 am - 1:00 pm
1:30 pm-3:30 pm
4:00 pm-6:00 pm

Relax in the VIP indoor resting area while sipping your preferred wine

$
79
VIP Wine Tasting &
Wine Degustation Experience

Get entrance to Wine Tasting area and enjoy the Festa from a prominent position

Unilimited wine tastings

Your 2-hour session will be
4:00 pm-6:00 pm

Relax in the VIP indoor resting area while sipping your preferred wine

Sit-down VIP Wine Degustation Experience with guided tasting and paired appetisers at 6.45pm

venue

Royal Exhibition Building

address

9 Nicholson Street, Carlton VIC 3053

PARKING

Melbourne Museum Car Park rates here

BICYCLES

Local bicycle facilities include bike lanes on Rathdowne St and Canning St.
There is also a shared pedestrian/bike path on Nicholson St.
Bicycle racks on the Plaza provide ample bike parking just outside the front door.

public transport

Plan your trip using PTV's Journey Planner

Transport options include:

Free City Circle Tram to Victoria Parade
City loop train to Parliament Station
Bus routes 250, 251 and 402 to Rathdowne Street
Making a trip to the city? Take a V/Line train

Empty bicycle racks in front of the Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building with reflected cityscape
contact us

Get In Touch

For General Questions or Sponsorship opportunities, please send us a message.

address

189 Faraday Street, Carlton VIC 3053

more information

03 9349 9000

info@melbourneitalianfesta.au

follow us
important

Your submission has been received!
You'll get an email with instructions to complete your purchase

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form, please try again...