Columbia, South Carolina · October 10, 2026
A celebration of Italian food, music & family.
Join us at Finlay Park for a full day of Italian culture and heritage — honoring the legacy of Villa Tronco, the oldest Italian restaurant in South Carolina.
About the Festival
Highlighting Italian food, music, traditions & family.
The Italian Festival is closely tied to the legacy of Villa Tronco — the oldest Italian restaurant in South Carolina and a true Columbia institution. We bring generations together for a day of authentic flavors, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Authentic Italian Food
Local restaurants and vendors serving classic Italian dishes.
Live Music
Italian traditions, song, and dance throughout the day.
Family Activities
Something for every generation — kids and grandparents alike.
Heritage & Culture
Celebrating the people and history behind Italian-American life.
Coming Up
Lead-Up Events
We're hosting events throughout the year to celebrate Italian culture and heritage leading up to October 10th.
To be announced
Stay tuned — our next lead-up event will be announced soon.
Italian Heritage Nights
A rotating series highlighting food, music, and storytelling.
Villa Tronco Tribute
Honoring the family and legacy behind Columbia's oldest Italian restaurant.
Get Involved
Be part of the festival.
We're now accepting vendor applications and volunteer registrations for October 10, 2026.
Vendors
Apply to be a vendor
Food vendors, artisans, makers, and Italian-themed exhibitors are welcome. Showcase your craft to thousands of festival-goers in the heart of downtown.
Vendor Application →Volunteers
Volunteer at the festival
Help bring the Italian Festival to life. Volunteers are the heartbeat of the day — we'd love to have you on the team.
Volunteer Sign-Up →The Location
Finlay Park
in the heart of Columbia
Located in the heart of downtown Columbia, South Carolina, Finlay Park is a newly renovated city park — the perfect backdrop for a day of food, music, and family.
