A Taste of Italy Griffith has celebrated its biggest year yet, with seven days of Italian-inspired events, experiences, food, wine and culture attracting thousands of visitors to Griffith and showcasing the many ways visitors can experience the region's unique Italian heritage.
Since launching in 2019, A Taste of Italy Griffith has grown into a major week-long celebration, with this year's program featuring over 115 events, experiences and daily specials. The success of the week was driven by the incredible support of local businesses, local producers, event organisers, performers, community groups and volunteers, with everyone bringing something different to the program and helping make A Taste of Italy Griffith what it is today.
From the thousands of coffees and cannoli enjoyed throughout the week, retail therapy and traditional Italian meals at local restaurants and clubs, to live music, cellar door experiences and signature events, there was something happening right across the city!
Griffith Mayor, Councillor Doug Curran, said the success of the festival reflected the incredible support of the local community and businesses.
"Griffith really came alive for A Taste of Italy this year, from Italian-inspired shopfronts and window displays to people dressing up and businesses creating special Italian-inspired food and experiences, the whole city got behind A Taste of Italy Griffith," Cr Curran said.
"It was fantastic to see our community get behind the festival and give visitors such a warm Griffith welcome. A huge shout out also goes to the Griffith tourism team, who work tirelessly with our local businesses to encourage their involvement, bring the program to life and promote Griffith as a destination, helping attract so many visitors to our city."
Tourism Manager Mirella Guidolin said visitor feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
"We're seeing people return to Griffith year after year for A Taste of Italy Griffith, which is a fantastic reflection of the experience Griffith offers," Ms Guidolin said.
"What makes A Taste of Italy Griffith so special is the incredible collaboration across our community. Every business, organiser, performer, volunteer and community group brings something different to the program, and together we create a week that gives visitors so many different ways to experience Griffith."
"Thank you to everyone who helped make this year's festival such a success. The response from visitors and our local community has been fantastic, and we're looking forward to building on this year's celebration."
Attendance and economic impact data is still being collated, with further figures to be released as they become available.
Community members and visitors are also invited to share their feedback on this year's week-long celebration via the survey.
