A taste of Italy is returning to Melbourne’s north, with Preston Market’s popular Italian Day set to transform the market into a lively celebration of food, music and culture on Sunday 23 August.
Running from 10am to 3pm, the annual event will showcase authentic Italian cuisine, live entertainment, specialty stalls and family-friendly activities, creating a festive atmosphere inspired by a traditional Italian street festival.
Food lovers can feast on handmade pasta from Pasta Business, classic meatballs from Mamas Polpette and freshly grilled seafood from U Fucalari Sicilian BBQ. Sweet treats will also be on offer, including authentic tiramisu from Misu Tiramisu and traditional confetti flowers and nougat from Sulmona Sweets.
Visitors can also enjoy cocktails paired with gourmet Italian sausages from the Rustic Bean & Salsicce collaboration, along with premium gin and olive oil from 36 GinShort. Throughout the day, Preston Market’s regular traders will also be serving their extensive range of fresh produce and Italian favourites.
The entertainment program promises plenty of music and dancing, with performances from Lorenzo + Co, local Italian choirs and headline acts Pauly J, Toni Marchi and Claudio Parente.
Specialty pop-up stalls will feature everything from Italian-inspired pet accessories and handcrafted jewellery to homewares and books, while younger visitors can enjoy free face painting and balloon twisting between 10am and 2pm.
Whether you’re stopping by for an espresso, settling in for a long lunch or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Italian Day offers a colourful celebration of one of Melbourne’s favourite cuisines and cultures.
Italian Day takes place at Preston Market on Sunday 23 August from 10am to 3pm.
