With more than 60 events scheduled across Adelaide and regional venues, this year’s Festival promises a heartfelt celebration of Italian heritage, food, wine, music, art, cinema and community. Whether you grew up with Nonna’s pasta or simply love the Mediterranean way of life, this Festival offers something for everyone—young, old, and everyone in between.
New: Festa in the Plaza
For the first time, the Festival’s Opening Event – ‘Festa in the Plaza’ – will transform Festival Plaza into a bustling Italian piazza for two full days: Friday 7 and Saturday 8 November.
This free, family-friendly event will deliver a fully immersive Italian experience with:
- Authentic food and beverage vendors
- Live music and dancing
- Cultural activations and design showcases
- And plenty of Nonna-approved atmosphere
Guests can explore the experience across three dedicated areas:
- Via del Gusto (The Taste Lane) – A celebration of traditional and modern Italian cuisine
- Piazza Centrale (The Heartbeat) – Live entertainment and Italian-style hospitality
- Osteria Terrazza (Terrace Kitchen) – Food, wine, and good company al fresco
Celebrating Italian culture across generations
Festival Chair Gina Marchetti says the 2025 program is about sharing the joy of Italian culture with everyone, regardless of background or age.
“When the Adelaide Italian Festival first started in 1976, it was really just created for the Italian community to enjoy – and that they did,” Gina says.
From pizza, pasta, zeppole, and gelato, to Italian wine, music, cinema, fashion, and design, the Festival showcases everything we love about Italy—with a local twist.
“However, throughout the years this Festival has grown and with it we have been fortunate enough to welcome a much broader audience who have wanted to celebrate this wonderful way of life.”
Signature events not to miss
In addition to the spectacular Opening Event and the soulful Journey Mass, the Festival’s Signature Events are designed to engage, entertain, and indulge.
- La Grande Gita – A family-friendly cycling event through McLaren Vale, held on Sunday 2 November at Serafino Wines. Choose a short or long ride, then enjoy Italian street food and a pop-up village experience.
- House of Gucci Screening – On Tuesday 11 November, head to Palace Nova Eastend for an elegant night of Italian fashion and cinema. Enjoy drinks, canapés, and live music before the screening of this glamorous film.
- Pranzo in the Piazza – Held on Sunday 16 November at Roma, this long lunch is set to be a sell-out event.
Adelaide Italian Festival 2025 is free from 7–16 November 2025. Full program and info at adelaideitalianfestival.com.au
