Entertainment
3 August, 2026
Italian festa was ‘fantastico’
THE fifth annual Cairns Italian Festival has been hailed as its biggest success yet, with thousands of people turning out across a week of events celebrating Italian food, music and culture.
Festival director Claudio Di Bartolomeo said the event was the culmination of nearly a year of planning.
“I couldn’t be prouder of what we achieved this year. Eleven months of planning came together in the most incredible way. Seeing thousands of people smiling, dancing and celebrating together reminded us exactly why we do what we do,” he said.
The festival reached its peak at ‘La Festa – Food and Wine’ at Fogarty Park on Saturday, where crowds enjoyed authentic Italian cuisine, fine wine, cocktails and a packed programme of live entertainment.
The live performances were a standout, with Romano Bros performing direct from Italy alongside Siesta Cartel, The Italian Stallions Band, Nikki Dagostino and Viva la Diva. Yussef Ben Touati wowed spectators with his pizza acrobatics, while Turning Pointe Dance Studios showcased traditional Italian folk dancing. A display of classic Italian cars and motorcycles added another popular attraction.
Mr Di Bartolomeo said the response from the community exceeded expectations.
“Absolutely. The response from the community was overwhelming. We welcomed thousands of people across the festival – and the energy, support and positive feedback made all the hard work worthwhile,” he said.
While La Festa drew the largest crowds, Mr Di Bartolomeo said every event contributed to the festival’s success.
“There were so many special moments – ‘Opera in the Tropics’ at St Monica’s Cathedral, the atmosphere at ‘La Festa’, ‘Beats & Spritz, the ‘Long Lunch’ and simply watching people connect through food, music and culture. Seeing different generations celebrating together was something really special.”
Festivalgoers also embraced the annual spaghetti eating competition and children’s activities, while food stalls serving wood-fired pizza, handmade pasta, coffee and regional Italian specialities remained busy throughout the day.
According to Mr Di Bartolomeo, positive feedback came from every corner of the festival.
“The feedback has been incredible. Visitors, performers, stallholders and volunteers have all told us this was our best festival yet. That’s the greatest reward we could ask for after so many months of work.”
With another successful festival complete, organisers have already turned their attention to 2027.
