Live entertainment thrives Friday starting with the “Mississauga Italstar” youth singing showcase, local favourites Cat Bernardi and up and the up & coming teen duo Elio & Ferro. Z103’s Tony Monaco will broadcast live from the heart of Italfest’s “Under the Sauga Moon" Dance Party featuring freestyle artist Zoe and Juno award-nominated Elissa. On stage, along with Italo Canadian artist Armando Music, whose international collaborations include "EL PARADISO" with DJ Antoine, and the official FIFA World Cup song "OLE OLE", the forever popular Joee’ will pump out hits like "Angel" and "If I Could", captivating the ardent crowd. Z103.5's electrifying DJ Danny D will keep the party going at Mississauga Celebration Square until 11 pm. Get ready for non-stop dance hits!
Saturday, Celebrity MC’s, Andrea Trendadue from CHIN, and comedian Frank Spadone will highlight Italfest’s authentic cuisine, popular singers, musicians, dancers, choirs, comedians, and celebrity chefs, and inviting fans to sign up for a soccer challenge or one of Italfest’s hilarious pasta, watermelon or cannoli eating contests. All activities lead up to the nighttime spotlight shining on our Family headliners, Direct From Italy, singer-songwriter Pino Gioia, amazing tenor Giuseppe Gambi and the famous Little Tony Family Band paying tribute to their iconic Father, Little Tony.
Italfest’s 2025 featured region is Sicily and The Great Hall in Mississauga City Hall will house incredible displays of Sicilian culture. Famous people across time, artifacts, food sampling, musical performances, poetry, works of art and the world renowned Il Pupi Italici Puppet Theatre bring highlights from the largest region in Italy. As well, the Hockey Hall of Fame will present an exhibit of the famed Canadian Italian Hockey League.
Overall Description
Mississauga ITALFEST is Mississauga’s first and premier Italian festival. Named one of the Top 100 Festivals & Events in Ontario, since its inaugural year in 2013, ITALFEST takes place annually in August and is a free event celebrating the beauty of Italian music, heritage, and culture. We are thrilled to welcome back local festival goers and tourists from afar for our 13th consecutive taste of Italy!
ITALFEST features delicious food and crafts from a variety of vendors and artisans, cultural and family-oriented activities, a KidsZone, entertainment from local and international talent, a thriving “mercato” (market) and more. The festival spotlights a community rich in heritage, entertainment, culinary delights, family fun and diversity.
Experience Mississauga Italfest with exclusive seating beside the Main Stage, where the best views and vibes are reserved just for you!
Get access to the VIP Lounge and Bar Italia on Friday night and/or Saturday all day where you can enjoy licensed and non-alcoholic beverages and indulge in authentic Italian food and gourmet bites. Our VIP Lounge provides the ultimate festival experience, surrounded by the energy of the crowd but with the comfort of private seating. Celebrate Mississauga Italfest in style! Friday night access includes popular lighter food choices and Saturday includes a selection of delicious Italian culinary favourites.
