Festitalia

Raffaele Pierno is an internationally acclaimed Neapolitan tenor whose voice captures the timeless beauty of Italian opera and the soul-stirring charm of traditional Neapolitan song. Born in Naples on the same street as the legendary Enrico Caruso, Raffaele’s path to the stage was serendipitous—his talent discovered while singing at a local trattoria, just as Caruso’s had been a century earlier.

Flag throwing, or "sbandieratori" in Italian, is a centuries-old tradition that emerged during the medieval period in Italy's independent city-states and republics. The practice originated in the 12th and 13th centuries as military units would use colourful banners and flags not only for identification in battle but also as a means of communication and ceremonial display. Today, flag throwing remains a vibrant part of Italian cultural heritage, with numerous groups across the country preserving and performing these ancient techniques, often wearing period costumes and competing in tournaments that celebrate this unique blend of athleticism, artistry, and historical tradition.

Italian World Master Pizza Chef and Australia's Got Talent star Youssef Ben-Touati will bring his pizza acrobatics to Festitalia in a brilliant merging of food and athleticism (think Australian Ninja Warrior meets Masterchef!)

Prima Spada is a fencing school celebrating the work of European masters of the 16th and 17th centuries, and is particularly focused on Italian Renaissance swordplay. Prima Spada’s historical swordplay is offered through its numerous schools across Queensland, with high octane classes in historical fencing for both performance and competition. Offering an enjoyable and accessible approach to swordplay, students are constantly challenged to excel at the techniques taught at their level and are encouraged to demonstrate their ability in combat.

Festitalia-goers can time travel back to the Roman Empire in the first century with historical re-enactments by the acclaimed Pax Romana. 

Don't miss Mare Nostrvm's Roman village display, ancient medical kits or have a photo taken with Scipio's legionaries, try on helmets, write your name on papyrus and grind flour with a flour mill.

And for WWII buffs, take a look at Reggio Esercito's Italina historical uniforms, weapons and memorabilia.

So here's something fascinating about Commedia Dell'Arte - it was basically a family business! These theatre troupes were literally run by families, with everyone from grandparents to kids getting in on the act. Pretty cool, right?

Let Zumpa whisk you away to enchanting Italian fishing villages, moonlit olive groves, and the vibrant essence of peasant life under the Mediterranean sun.

Immerse yourself in their spirited fusion of folk and Italian world music, creating an authentic experience that's as rich and satisfying as a delectable plate of spaghetti and meatballs.

Featuring a dynamic vocal ability and musical prowess on the accordion that has been fused with the latest electronic technology, Latinissima brings a diverse line up of musicians who perform a wide range of musical styles from all around the world including classical, sweet jazz from the 40-50’s, and passionately romantic Italian classics.