Hamilton has a rich history of Italian-Canadian settlement. Today just over 16% of Hamiltonians are of Italian descent, which makes it one of the largest Italian migration communities in the City.
Festitalia 1976 was planned to invite Hamiltonians of all backgrounds to participate in a festival organized by Italians who are proud of their heritage and created an opportunity to share the heritage with fellow Canadians and contribute to the quality of life in a country that provided individuals of Italian background with opportunities to build a good life.
In 2025, Festitalia celebrates its 50th Anniversary! We are staying true to our roots and celebrating everything Italian-Canadian and current day Italian cultural experiences.
Experience “Italy Under One Roof” at the 50th Anniversary Expo taking place June 21-22.
Admission is free for all guests, making this a welcoming, accessible community event for all ages. The milestone celebration will feature a cultural showcase of Italian-Canadian heritage, blending traditional and modern expressions of Italian life through food, music, art, and family-friendly programming. There will also be a marketplace featuring artisanal offerings and product choices, celebrating both local craftsmanship and local flavours.
Throughout the weekend, families and children will enjoy a dedicated area filled with interactive and educational activities geared to feeling connected to Italian culture. Some of these activities include soccer clinics, bocce demonstrations, arts and crafts, face painting, and even a planting station that connects younger generations to both Italian horticultural traditions and sustainability themes.
Cultural programming includes live Canadian music performances and special guest appearances by artists affiliated with the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra. For art aficionados, Art talks featuring Art Gallery of Hamilton and an Art History profile of well-known Italian Artist Caravaggio. An interactive art zone will display works from Italian-Canadian artists and invite attendees to participate in collaborative projects. Italian language mini-lessons and Italian tourism features will help deepen understanding of Italy’s enduring influence locally and internationally.
A signature program highlight of the Expo is “David Rocco’s Al Fresco Dinner” on Saturday evening, where the internationally renowned chef and television personality will host a ticketed immersive five course dinner experience celebrating food, family, and storytelling. On Sunday afternoon Festitalia is hosting “Mass in the Grass,” with open invitation to those of the Roman Catholic faith to join us under a tent to celebrate with St. Anthony of Padua Pastor, Father Francesco Cucchi. Then stay to enjoy a Special Festitalia Legacy Panel that will feature past Festitalia Chairs to share highlights of Festitalia’s 50-year history.
Festitalia thanks its funders, sponsors, partners, and volunteers for supporting the 50th Anniversary Expo. Festitalia has more activities taking place continuing in August with Festitalia’s Youth Soccer Tournament and then into September and October. Plan to join us! Stay connected! A presto!
Would you like to be part of the 50th Anniversary celebrations? We need your help to make this special occasion and an experience to remember. We are seeking Volunteer roles in a variety of areas, please consider signing up to join our team.
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