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Hosted at the picturesque Idiom Restaurant at Idiom Wines, attendees are invited to embark on an enogastronomic journey through Italy. Explore new flavours, grape varieties, and the latest additions to the Vinotria imported Italian wine portfolio.
The highlight of this year's festival is the presence of the Sbandieratori Arezzo – the Flag-wavers of Arezzo. Idiom has partnered with the Italian Embassy, the Italian Consulate and the Italian Institute of Culture in Pretoria to bring the Sbandieratori d’Arezzo in southern Tuscany – to the festival.
Special occasions in Florence and Tuscany are often marked with street parades featuring flag throwers and flag wavers. The art of flag throwing dates back to Medieval and Renaissance times when military parades would be accompanied by each town’s band of merry musicians and their colourful flag wavers. Performances by the sbandieratori will take place a couple of times each day.
Entertainment for all age groups abounds, with local and Italian live music acts scheduled over the two days. For lovers of bubbly, the Prosecco tent and the Almare Spritz area offer delightful options. Additionally, dedicated Italian-themed kiddie’s activities such as pizza-making classes, mosaicking, face painting, and a football penalty shootout competition promise endless fun for the little ones.
Guests can immerse themselves in the regional diversity of authentic Italian dishes prepared by participating Italian guest chefs and suppliers. Daily show-cooking demonstrations will highlight the culinary skill and flavours behind each dish, emphasizing the importance of regional provenance of ingredients and wines.
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As a result of requests from previous editions, Idiom will also be creating a VIP tent with dedicated bar and service. Enjoy a complimentary antipasto platter on arrival and receive a curated goodie bag. The area will have a prime view of the Flag Wavers and the live music.
In its 2024 edition, the Italian Festival at Idiom shines a spotlight on the beautiful Toscana region, renowned for its romantic landscapes and notable wine regions. From Chianti to Brunello di Montalcino, attendees will have the opportunity to savour the finest wines Tuscany has to offer, along with being able to sign up for informative wine masterclasses scheduled throughout the event.
Please note that tickets for these masterclasses must be purchased in addition to the festival entry ticket, available on Webtickets.
The Italian Festival at Idiom promises a weekend filled with gastronomic delights, cultural experiences, and unforgettable moments against the backdrop of False Bay and the Helderberg mountains. Join us for a celebration of all things Italian on March 2nd and 3rd, 2024.
For more information, please visit www.italianfestival.co.za.