10/06/2026
The Columbus Italian Festival returns this weekend to the steps of St. John the Baptist Church in Italian Village from Friday, October 9 to Sunday, October 11, 2026.
Their website is https://www.columbusitalianfestival.com/
My experience of this festival (2021) can be found at https://ohiofestivals.net/columbus-italian-festival/
Get ready for plenty of Italian Food, lively music, vendors, bocce, w**e, gelato and more.
Highlights this year include:
• Vino al Colosseo – brand-new Italian w**e tasting experience on Friday night, featuring six Italian w**e tastings in a special dedicated tent.
• Columbus Crew Experiences – The Crew are a Signature Sponsor this year! Look for the new Crew Lounge near the ABC6 Entertainment Pavilion, La Piazza del Calcio and appearances by Crew Cat.
• Dante Fabbro Meet & Greet – Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman and our 2026 Parade Grand Marshal Dante Fabbro will be at the Festival Sunday for a special meet-and-greet.
• Piazza del Bambini – They’ve expanded our kids area this year with more activities and family fun throughout the entire weekend.
• Cooking Demonstrations – Guests can catch cooking demonstrations and learn a little more about the food and traditions that are such a big part of Italian culture.
• Expanded Bocce Classic – Bocce is bigger than ever this year, with new courts and tournaments Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
• High School Marching Band Competition – The Sunday parade will once again make its way into the Festival and culminate with the High School Marching Band Competition.
• New Raffles – Some great prizes this year, including our Trip to Rome for Two, valued at more than $11,000, and our Ultimate Apple Bundle, valued at more than $2,500.
Buona Festa!
