The MP Italian Festa Returns
Sunday 1 November 2026
The MP Italian Festa is the Peninsula's number one celebration of Italianity.
One day. One location. An experience that feels like stepping into a little Italy by the bay.
Authentic food. Regional wine. Live music. Cultural exhibitions. Kids' entertainment. And the kind of warmth that only comes when a community gathers around something they truly love.
Born from Calabrese heritage and a deep love for the Peninsula, the Festa was created to honour the lasting contributions of Italian Australians to this region, and to give everyone, Italian or not, a reason to celebrate.
FOOD & WINE
The Mornington Peninsula is home to some of Australia's finest produce, and on November 1st, it meets the flavours of Italy.
From hand-rolled pasta and wood-fired pizza to artisanal small goods, regional cheeses, and Mornington Peninsula wine, this is not your average food festival. Every vendor is curated. Every bite is the real thing.
Regional Italian food vendors and artisan producers
Mornington Peninsula wine and craft beverages
Handcrafted cannoli, gelato, biscotti and more
Authentic small goods and specialty Italian produce
Cooking demonstrations with celebrated chefs
MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
From the moment the gates open to the last note of the day, the Village Green comes alive.
Live performances spanning traditional Southern Italian folk music, contemporary acts, and roving entertainers fill every corner of the Festa with the unmistakable sound of Italy.
Main stage live performances throughout the day
Traditional Italian and contemporary local acts
Roving performers, dancers, and cultural acts
MC-led entertainment across all trading hours
Italian vintage car display
Our dedicated cooking demonstration stage brings Italy's most celebrated flavours to life in front of your eyes.
Celebrated chefs and passionate home cooks take the stage to share authentic recipes, techniques, and stories from handmade pasta to Calabrese classics.
Live demonstrations across the day
Local and visiting Italian chefs
Audience participation and tastings
Seasonal and regional focus
COOKING DEMONSTRATION
KIDS & FAMILY
The MP Italian Festa is a family event at its core. From the nonnas to the bambini, there is something for everyone across the day.
Dedicated kids' activities, roving entertainers, and a family-friendly atmosphere mean the little ones are looked after while everyone else enjoys the best of Italian culture.
Dedicated children's activity zone
Roving performers and family entertainment
Plenty of seating and covered areas
Free entry for kids under 4
Stroller and pram friendly
FESTA WEEK
Festa Week is a series of curated satellite events across the Mornington Peninsula in the lead-up to the big day.
Long lunches. Cultural storytelling evenings. Live music. Regional food experiences. Each event captures the spirit, flavour, and heart of Italy right here on the Peninsula.
BE PART OF THE FESTA
The Festa is more than a single day. It is built by the community, for the community. Whether you want to showcase your product, align your brand with something meaningful, or simply give your time, there is a place for you at the table.
PARTNER WITH US
Align your brand with the Peninsula's number one celebration of Italian culture. View our partnership packages.
Become a Vendor
Showcase your authentic Italian food, wine, or artisan products to thousands of Peninsula visitors.
VOLUNTEER
The Festa is powered by passionate people. Join the team and be part of something special.