- When
Saturday 12 April from 4pm–8.30pm
- General information
- The festa is a family friendly event with free activities for all ages.
- This is an outdoor event so rug up for a lovely autumn evening.
- Getting here
- A free shuttle bus from the city will run from 4pm to 9pm. More information
Savour the taste of Italy with a magical evening under the stars, where the sights, sounds and flavours of Italy will come alive!
As the moon rises over Canberra, enjoy live music and performances that will make you want to sing and dance the night away.
Share a delicious dinner with friends and enjoy authentic Italian dishes. Sip a refreshing glass of wine or a cocktail, al fresco, and let the evening unfold.
Italian marketplace
Explore the marketplace featuring over 30 stalls with handmade goods, artisan products and providores inspired by Italian culinary traditions. Shop local and discover unique offerings from Canberra-region growers and makers.
Visit the Pompeii exhibition
Take the opportunity to visit our captivating Pompeii exhibition with extended viewing until 8.30 pm. Entry costs apply.
Discovery Centre
Enjoy free entry to the Discovery Centre until 5pm, bookings essential.
Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of Italian culture, community and cuisine!
Welcome to Country – 4.00pm
Mask making
4.15pm to 7.30pm, Caravan bay window in the Gandel Atrium
Performances
All performances are on the main stage unless otherwise noted.
George Vumbaca (MC)
4.10pm to 4.30pm, 8.10pm to 8.30pm
An acclaimed singer, entertainer, and master of ceremonies, George Vumbaca is renowned for his smooth, soulful voice and charm. Inspired by the legendary Italian–American crooners, George delivers performances filled with passion, elegance and an unmistakable Italian flair.
Fratelli del Sud
4.40pm to 5.00pm, followed by roaming performance
A passionate and energetic live band, Fratelli del Sud transport audiences to southern Italy with their unique blend of styles and influences.
Dai, Ciccio!
5.10pm to 5.40pm, 6.55pm to 7.25pm
Come on, man! Opera singer Cristina Russo wanted to sing songs about pizza and mozzarella. Together with double bassist Tom Flenady and guitarist Adam Russo, she formed Dai, Ciccio! – a celebration of Italian food and music.
Liz Testa
5.50pm to 6.05pm
Combining breathtaking aerial artistry with angelic vocals, Liz Testa is a dynamic and versatile entertainer. Performing on a static lyra or aerial hoop, Liz delivers a unique, captivating, and unforgettable musical experience.
According to Us
6.15 to 6.45pm, 7.35pm to 8.05pm
A collaboration between vocalist Rossella Fanelli and accordionist Paolo Campanari Brancondi, According to Us blend traditional Italian songs with a jazz twist and modern flair and have been performing at events across Australia since 2022.
Bianca Bonino
4.15pm to 8.15pm roaming performance
Actress Bianca Bonino is among the best performers and teachers of commedia dell’arte. She brings her comic wit and timing to this form of Italian theatre, often performed on the street, that emerged in northern Italy in the 15th century.
- Download Italian Festa program and map1.8 mb pdf [ PDF | 1.8 mb ]
Free Museum–City shuttle bus loop
Pick-up and drop-off locations
- City Interchange, Platform 5, Mort St
- City West Interchange, Marcus Clarke St
- Marcus Clarke St, after Farrell Pl
- NFSA, Liversidge St, after Ellery Cr
- Liversidge St, after Brian Lewis Cr
- National Museum of Australia, Lennox Crossing
| City bus interchange Platform 5 Mort Street | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Departure times | |||
| 4pm | 4.30pm | 5pm | |
| 6pm | 6.30pm | 7pm | |
| 8pm | 8.30pm | 9pm | |
| Departure times | |||
| Museum | 4.15pm | 4.45pm | 5.15pm |
| 6.15pm | 6.45pm | 7.15pm | |
| 8.15pm | 8.45pm | 9.15pm | |
Acknowledgements
Supported by the Embassy of Italy in Canberra.
