THOUSANDS descended on Mirboo North to celebrate all the wonderful aspects of Italian culture on Sunday.
Despite the heat, the Mirboo North Italian Festa attracted upwards of 27,000 people to the popular event.
Since its inception in 2016, the Italian Festa has grown exponentially and is known for it happy, celebratory atmosphere.
There was plenty to see and do right through Mirboo North’s Baromi Park.
There was entertainment up on the main stage, flag throwing, spaghetti eating and grape stomping competitions, cooking demonstrations, a children’s entertainment area featuring magician Luigi
Zucchini, the Mirboo North Italian Festa market showcasing the very best in fresh produce, artisan homewares, arts and crafts, and jewellery, and of course an abundance of delicious foods.
Everyone was encouraged to enjoy the taste sensations from different regions of Italy with more than 40 food vendors taking part in the event.
South Gippsland Shire Council’s Cr Adrian Darakai thanked the Mirboo North Italian Festa Committee for once again bringing the fabulous event to the region.
“As the traditional saying goes, the greatness of culture can be found in its festivals, and I think that’s true. When you judge the Italian culture by the scale and the quality of this event, we can reasonably say the Italian community in South Gippsland is one of our greatest,” he said.
“It is more than just a festival, it is a testament to the power of culture to bring us all together and it doesn’t matter if you have Italian heritage or not, we’re all sharing in this culture.”
The Mirboo North Italian Festa was established by a group of passionate women who love the Italian culture.
Coordinator Rosie Romano said she was incredibly proud with how amazing and beloved the event has become.
“We have had the support of so many wonderful people,” she said.
“One of the things I am most proud about this event is we have formed all these friendships, not just with performers and vendors, but with operational and hire companies as well. We’ve gathered around as like-minded people who are positive and have a great outlook on life. I always feel like I’m welcoming back old friends.”
Siesta Cartel was back to entertain the crowds for the second year, and James Liotta returned to MC the event, a role he has taken on since the beginning.
On behalf of the committee, Rosie thanked the sponsors, community members, council, volunteers and those who attended the event for producing another incredibly successful Mirboo North Italian Festa.
