Brisbane’s one-day celebration of all things Italian Festitalia will return to Spencer Park in Newmarket on Sunday 14 October. Now in its 11th year, Festitalia celebrates community spirit and cultural diversity through food, wine, music and art by recognising the contributions made by the Italian community in Queensland.
This year’s entertainment program includes the Gruppo Storico Fivizzano Flagthrowers direct from Italy, the Brisbane Tarantella Dancers and swordsmen Prima Spada. Festitalia goers can also travel back to the Roman Empire with historical re-enactments by the acclaimed Pax Romana and exhibitions by Mare Nostrvm and Regio Esercito. More than 30 Italian-inspired stalls and pop-ups will be in attendance, offering authentic pasta, pizza, calamari, gnocchi, Nutella doughnuts and more. There will even be cannoli and gelato eating competitions, as well as Italian cooking demonstrations led by the chefs behind Ristorante Tartufo, Noosa Waterfront Resturant and Bar and Pavarotti’s Italian.
This year, Festitalia celebrates the ancient art of glassblowing. The origins of glassmaking in Venice go back to the times of the Roman Empire; live kilns and talented glassblowers will demonstrate throughout the day. Those wanting to try their hand at sword fighting can take part in 30-minute lessons throughout the day. The Talk Italian Tent also returns for those wanting to brush up on their conversational Italian.
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