Get ready to say ciao to Brisbane’s most vibrant culinary event as Festa Italiana makes its triumphant return to Howard Smith Wharves for its third year! Spanning two indulgent weekends, from Thursday 29 May to Sunday 1 June and Thursday 5 June to Sunday 8 June, this Italian food festival is set to be bigger, better, and more delicious than ever before.
With authentic Italian cuisine, lively entertainment, riverside spritz bars, and an exciting moped giveaway, Festa Italiana promises an unforgettable experience for foodies, families, and lovers of all things Italian.
A Stellar Culinary Lineup
This year’s incredible culinary lineup is led by renowned chefs Orazio D’Elia, Carmine Guarino, and Dean Anning, who’ll be bringing their signature styles and passion for Italian cooking to life.
Hailing from Naples, Orazio D’Elia of Da Orazio (Sydney) will be serving up dishes inspired by his hometown’s seaside promenades. Festival-goers can look forward to strozzapreti ai gamberi (twisted pasta with prawns, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes) and rigatoni alla vodka (a rich tomato, cream, and chilli dish with a vodka kick). On the Main Lawn’s grill station, his porchetta-stuffed focaccia and Pollo al Mattone chicken rolls will be perfect for riverside feasting.
Joining Orazio is culinary master Carmine Guarino, the Napoli-born chef known for his passion for traditional Italian street food. Think Roman-style pizzas by the slice, paired with natural Italian wines and the joyful beats of classic Italo Disco music.
At Ciao Papi, Howard Smith Wharves’ very own riverside trattoria, Executive Chef Dean Anning has crafted a special set festival menu featuring dishes like stracciatella with grilled leeks, hazelnut and truffle, and a rich, hearty rigatoni alla amatriciana, celebrating bold and honest Italian cooking.
True to its roots, the festival will also include an authentic Salumeria in Green House, offering guests live mozzarella-making demonstrations and artisan charcuterie boards. Experience freshly made Italian cheeses, deli delights, and crispy fried calamari for an irresistible taste of Italy.
No Italian feast would be complete without something sweet. Gelato Messina will be serving an exclusive dessert, created especially for Festa Italiana, for those with a sweet tooth.
Raise a Glass to Spritz Culture
Dive into Italy’s celebratory cocktail culture with the Spritz Bar, featuring vibrant creations like Lambrusco Spritzes and the frozen White Peach Aperol Slushie. For beer lovers, festival partner Felons Brewing Co. has brewed an exclusive Italian Lager to mark the occasion.
Meanwhile, the Ciao Papi Aperol Garden will transport guests to the citrus groves of Southern Italy with lush greenery, zesty orange tones, and riverside vibes. Sip on a refreshing Aperol Spritz as you bask in the Queensland sunshine.
Fun for All Ages
Festa Italiana isn’t just for grown-ups. Families are invited to join the fun with a dedicated Bambino Zone, complete with children’s entertainment and open play areas. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate Italian food and culture with your little ones.
Music and live entertainment will keep the festival buzzing, with live bands, roaming musicians, and DJs creating a joyful, festive atmosphere across both weekends. Whether you’re enjoying disco beats or a sweet Italian serenade, the energy will be infectious.
Win a Piece of La Dolce Vita
This year, Festa Italiana is giving you the chance to win a stylish Rolln Moped each weekend. Fully electric and inspired by classic European design, these mopeds are perfect for city cruising or breezy coastal drives. Simply register on-site during the festival for your chance to win, and you could be living the ultimate Italian summer dream.
A Celebration by the Brisbane River
“Last year’s Festa Italiana was a huge success, and we’re thrilled to bring it back bigger and better,” says Luke Fraser, CEO of Howard Smith Wharves. “It’s a celebration of incredible food, culture, and community, all within the beautiful setting of the Brisbane River.”
Howard Smith Wharves Founder Adam Flaskas adds, “There’s nothing quite like celebrating under the Queensland sunshine with amazing Italian flavours, music, and good company. We’re proud to deliver an event that brings people together through shared experiences.”
Whether you’re a pasta aficionado, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply looking for a fun day out, Festa Italiana promises a memorable experience for everyone.
Mark your calendar for two weekends of Italian indulgence, from 29 May to 8 June 2025, at Howard Smith Wharves. Gather your friends, family, and loved ones and prepare to feast, sip, and celebrate Italian style!