Viva Italia brings a taste of Italy to Canberra with food vans, an Italian Festa and more

Posted on 25 March, 2025

They had us at fine food and flowing wine.

Have you ever dreamed of going to Italy but never had the chance, or are you a born and bred Italian missing some of the traditions of your homeland? Well, get excited because Viva Italia in Canberra is coming from Friday 28 March until Sunday 13 April to celebrate all things Italian.

Dedicated to celebrating and promoting Italian culture, community, and heritage in Canberra and the surrounding regions, Viva Italia is bringing the well-known aspects of Italy to Canberra – from architecture to art, opera, literature, film, fashion, tradition, technology, innovation, and of course food and wine. And with a rich history of links to Italian culture (with roots dating back to the post-World War II period when many Italian migrants settled in the city), it’s a great way to find out more about the history of the community.

You can expect to be able to embrace a bit of everything, but there will be plenty to enjoy. An example? Some highlight events throughout the festival include the Opening Night: Under the Stars on Friday 28 March (think: live music, authentic Italian street food, wines, Aperol and Limoncello by the water at The Jetty on Lake Burley Griffin), your chance to channel your inner Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck at a screening of Roman Holiday and an Italian-themed wine tour.

Plus, there will be 11 different opportunities (that’s right, 11!) to partake in Paint and Sip events, an Italian Festa at the National Museum of Australia, book launches, various lunches and dinners, the Auto Italia car show, wine tours, live music, history, cooking classes, film, cultural events, arts and crafts, and much more!

Excited yet? Showcasing all things Italian, who can say no to Italian food vans and live entertainment?