Plaza Italia in Asunción will once again become a vibrant meeting point for Italian culture, cuisine, music, and community with the return of the much-anticipated Festa in Piazza (Festival in the Square) on Sunday, 1 June, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The event invites everyone to spend a full day immersed in the flavours, sounds, and traditions of Italy. Festa in Piazza is organised by the Embassy of Italy in Paraguay, the Dante Alighieri Society, the Italian-Paraguayan Chamber of Commerce, and COM.IT.ES Paraguay, with support from the Municipality of Asunción.
A recognised festival with growing impact
In 2024, Festa in Piazza was declared an event of National Tourist Interest by the National Secretariat of Tourism (SENATUR). The beloved festival celebrates the close ties between the two countries and returns with renewed energy, having attracted over 15,000 visitors at its previous edition.
Music all day long
The opening act at midday will feature the Symphonic Band of the National Police, conducted by Maestro Oscar Barreto, performing a repertoire of classical Italian music to set the tone for a joyful, family-friendly day.
Throughout the day, a variety of music and dance performances will follow, including contributions from Colegio Santa Caterina da Siena, the Anga Rory troupe directed by Lilia Doldán, Rompan la Vaca, Cecilia Salinas, Fundación Arts Musicae, Jesús Ayllón and Ale Raggio, the Municipal Folkloric Ensemble, the Sicilian Union Choir, and the Club Centenario Choir. The celebration will also include a special appearance by the Italian tenor Francesco Iaquinta.
A culinary tour of Italy
Food lovers will be able to savour authentic Italian cuisine, including lasagne, risotto, pizza, bruschetta, focaccia, panini, and tiramisù, as well as regional specialities like arancini, caponata, and polenta trentina.
Italian associations from various regions will showcase their local dishes and handmade delicacies.
Restaurants and importers such as Casa Pastrone, Pulcinella, and Tentazione Gourmet will participate, offering vegetarian and gluten-free options. A wide range of wines, beverages, and desserts will also be available.
Find art and culture at Festa in Piazza
Artisan stalls will showcase hand-painted ceramics, oils, and crafts from creators such as La Clavelina and Inspirazione. A special photo booth by Revista Inmigrantes will allow visitors to capture memories of the day.
According to Vincenzo Liguori, director of the Dante Alighieri Institute “Festa in Piazza is a celebration of our heritage and a cultural experience for all ages.”
While entry is free, attendees are encouraged to bring donations of non-perishable food, which will be distributed to charitable organisations such as Unidos por Cristo, San Rafael, Padre P. Masi, Las Elegidas, and the Pequeño Cottolengo Don Orione. These groups support vulnerable communities throughout Paraguay.
This festival not only highlights Italian excellence in music, food, and art but also promotes values of solidarity, cultural exchange, and community spirit.
For more information visit Festa in Piazza on Facebook. This weekend also The Teletón Feast (La Comilona de Teletón) is held in Asunción.
