The Nelson Italian Festival returns on 1 March 2026
Nelson, New Zealand – Italy is coming to town. On Sunday 1 March 2026, the much-loved Nelson Italian Festival returns to Lower Trafalgar Street and Trafalgar Park, transforming the heart of Nelson into a lively Italian festa from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Entry is free, and the event is open to all ages.
Following the huge success of the 2025 Festival, which attracted more than 8,000 visitors from Nelson and beyond, the 2026 edition promises an even bigger celebration of Italian food, culture and community.
Festivalgoers can follow the aromas of wood-fired pizza, handmade gnocchi and Italian street food, alongside espresso, gelato and Italian-inspired treats. Popular live cooking demonstrations will also return, offering a front-row seat to Italian culinary craft, while live music fills the streets and the Tarantella dance invites everyone to join in.
At Trafalgar Park, visitors will find the Festival’s largest Italian vehicle showcase yet, featuring an impressive lineup of Fiats, Ferraris, Alfa Romeos, Vespas and Ducatis. Designed for the whole family, the 2026 programme also includes two junior sports tournaments at Trafalgar Park: the Ripper Rugby Tournament for boys and girls aged 11–14, and the Mini Football Tournament for ages 10–13, both a fun way for young athletes to take part in the day.
A dedicated kids’ corner will offer games and face painting, while adults can try their luck in the Festival’s much-anticipated raffle. New for 2026 is the “Italians in Nelson” exhibition, celebrating the stories of the local Italian community and its history in the region, dating back to the late 1800s.
With its blend of food, culture, entertainment and community spirit, the Nelson Italian Festival is the closest you’ll get to Italy without a passport.
Event details
Nelson Italian Festival 2026
📍 Trafalgar Park & Lower Trafalgar Street, Nelson
📅 Sunday 1 March 2026
🕙 10:00am – 4:00pm
🎟 Free admission | All ages welcome
🌐 nelsonitalianfestival.co.nz
This Post Has 0 Comments