Over two weekends — from Thursday, May 29 to Sunday, June 1 and Thursday, June 5 to Sunday, June 8 — Howard Smith Wharves was transformed into the home of the very best Italian dishes, drinks and entertainment with FESTA ITALIANA.
But guess what?
Thanks to the festival’s success this third year, it has been extended for one more weekend, from Friday, June 13 to Sunday, June 15!
As CEO of Howard Smith Wharves Luke Fraser said , “We’ve had such an incredible response to FESTA ITALIANA – families, friends, and food lovers have really embraced it. With so much good energy and a picture-perfect forecast, it just made sense to keep the celebration going for one more weekend.
“This is the third year we have held FESTA ITALIANA and it’s been the biggest and best celebration yet. If you haven’t had a chance to check it out – you have extra time to do so!”
This year’s festival brought even more flavour, fun and festivities by the Brisbane River, with authentic Italian cuisine, lively entertainment, spritz bars, and even the chance to win a stylish Rolln Moped, so you can truly feel like you’re roaming the busy streets of Rome.
With different areas set up, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Main Lawn has taken centre stage with a lively grill station serving up succulent Pollo al Mattone chicken rolls and porchetta-stuffed focaccia layered with marinated, grilled eggplant.
Visitors also have the chance to tuck into renowned chef and culinary icon Orazio D’Elia’s much-loved pasta dishes, with his signature flair and flavour. Think strozzapreti ai gamberi, twisted pasta tossed with prawns, zucchini and cherry tomatoes, and musts like rigatoni alla vodka.
Just steps away, a bespoke Spritz Bar is pouring a vibrant collection of bold and refreshing takes on the most iconic and summery of Italian cocktails. Citrussy flavours will be first in line, with cocktails that taste like sunshine in a glass, such as frozen White Peach Aperol Slushies. It’s not just cocktails though. If you’re a person of simpler tastes, Felons Brewing Co. has brewed an Italian Lager for the occasion, and it is available exclusively at the festival!
The queen of all Italian food is a highlight, as Napoli-born chef Carmine Guarino showcases his passion for Her Majesty: the humble yet delicious pizza. The Roman-style slices are paired with natural Italian wines and the feel-good sounds of classic Italo Disco. The definition of good vibes.
Ciao Papi Garden was transformed into a vibrant Aperol Garden — a sun-soaked escape inspired by the citrus groves and coastal charm of Southern Italy. Serving, of course Aperol Spritz, Ciao Papi is also serving a special set menu curated by Executive Chef Dean Anning, with dishes like creamy
stracciatella with grilled leeks, hazelnut and truffle, and rich rigatoni alla amatriciana, celebrating the simplicity and down-to-earth quality of traditional Italian cooking.
In Green House, an authentic Italian Salumeria brings the true flavours of Italy to life with artisanal charcuterie, freshly made mozzarella and deli-style goods. You can even experience a live mozzarella-making demonstration as you graze on the most incredible charcuterie boards you can think of.
Dessert makes an appearance too, in the form of gelato. And not just any: beloved Gelato Messina is serving an exclusive festival collaboration that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. And, if you’ve got bambini with you, worry not! There is a dedicated kids zone, making FESTA ITALIANA a true family-friendly event!
This year, attendees have the chance to win a Rolln Moped each weekend. Simply head down and register on-site for your chance to win, so you can roll in style! And, if you’re gathering your amici, famiglia and amore for the festival this final weekend, you can start getting in the mood with their curated playlist.