Since all I seem to be seeing this week is red, white and green, I thought I’d compile a quick list of some celebrated Italian festivals currently taking place around the world. Cultural festivals like this can be a fun alternative way to experience a city you already know well, or a unique way to experience a city the first time around.
We’ve just missed the inagural Italian Festival Week in Dubai, but now you know about it and can plan accordingly for next year! Here are a few others where you can still get your fill of la dolce vita!
Sydney Italian Festival: Events still to come include a heritage tour (June 8) and foodies walking tour of Norton Street (June 9). The Italian Film Fest was kicked off earlier this past weekend by bella Sophia Loren. Events continue through June 11.
Melbourne Italian Festival: Federation Square hosts a photographic exhibit depicting the carnival of Viareggio in Toscana; And Lygon Street in Carlton will be transformed to a piazza this weekend, complete with its very own Colosseum. Runs through June 10.
Bangkok: The Bella Italia Italian Festival has been going on since May and continues through the end of June. Events include a tour of monuments designed by Italian Architects in Bangkok (June 9), photo exhibits and simultaneous Italian Film and Food Festivals, the latter of which continues through July 3.
Charleston, SC: Spoleto USA is a 17-day performing arts festival created as counterpart to a similar festival held every year in Italy. Spoleto turns 30 this year, and is acknowledging in a special way festival founder Gian Carlo Menotti who passed away in February. Piccolo Spoleto is a localized version of the event that runs simultaneously, focusing on artists of the Southeast region. Both festivals are currently underway.