Festitalia 2026 will be a lively celebration of Italian culture, family, and community spirit, with a full day of entertainment, activities, and authentic cuisine.
Bring your appetite and your family to the Brisbane Showgrounds on Sunday, 20 September 2026 for a full day of authentic Italian food, lively music, and hands-on family fun.
Whether you are coming for the wood-fired pizza, the live entertainment, or the sweet treat of over 10,000 freshly made cannoli, FESTITALIA brings the sights, sounds, and flavours of Italy right to the heart of Brisbane.
What’s on for Families & Kids?
FESTITALIA isn’t just an Italian food festival – it’s an interactive experience packed with activities designed specifically to keep kids entertained all day long:
- Kidzclub Australia Zone: Dedicated family zone featuring traditional Italian games and guided kids’ activities.
- Nonna’s Slipper Throw & Tira Molla: Join in the lighthearted family competition with Nonna’s famous slipper-throwing contest and traditional Italian tug-of-war.
- World-Famous Pizza Acrobatics: Watch in awe as world-renowned pizza acrobat Youssef Ben Touati flips and spins dough high in the air.
- Roving Characters & Entertainment: Keep an eye out for colourful stilt walkers from Homunculus Theatre and elegant Venetian costumed performers roaming the grounds.
- History Comes Alive: Step back in time with Roman historical exhibitions, military displays, and hands-on Prima Spada fencing demonstrations.
- Vintage Italian Vehicles: Get up close to classic Italian cars and scooters, a hit for kids and grandparents alike.
Taste Your Way Through Italy
Transforming the RNA Showgrounds into a bustling Italian piazza, the food lineup offers authentic regional dishes made fresh on-site:
- Savory Favorites: Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, and hot espresso.
- Sweet Treats: Freshly rolled cannoli (with over 10,000 being prepped for the day!) and authentic gelato.
- Live Culinary Demos: New for 2026, watch Ancient Roman pastry making with chef Andreas Lachman (Mare Nostrvm) and fresh mozzarella making with Alessandro Motta.
Essential Planning Info for Parents
- Getting There: Brisbane Showgrounds is easily accessible via train (Fortitude Valley Station) or bus routes along Exhibition Way. On-site parking is available at standard venue rates.
- Pram Access: Flat, paved paths throughout the main festival precinct make navigating with strollers easy.
- Dietary Options: Vegetarian, gluten-free, and kid-friendly meal options will be available across food vendors.
Plan Your Visit to Festitalia 2026
When: Sunday 20 September 2026
Where: Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills
Tickets on sale now at www.festitalia.com.au
