This weekend, the 4th annual DFW Italian Festival is bringing all the fresh pasta, wine, and culture you can handle right to Irving’s Levy Event Plaza.
Taking over Las Colinas on October 10–11, this two-day celebration by the nonprofit DFW Italians is packed with enough food and entertainment to keep your whole crew happy. Here is what to expect.
City of Irving
Carbs, Cars, and Classical Music
Come hungry. The festival is hosting heavy hitters like Eataly for live food demos, plus masterclasses by chef Jen Bajsel (pasta) and Matteo Cina (sauce).
While you eat, you can catch live performances from Opera on Tap, classical guitarist Vincenzo Martinelli, and live-looping violinist Zuriel Merek. Want something a little more high-energy? Check out the medieval Italian sword-fighting demo, gawk at the Italian supercar show, or take a scenic gondola ride.
The Early Bird Schedule (Saturday Only)
If you want to beat the crowds on Saturday, get there at 8 a.m. to catch the Italian Club Dallas bocce tournament (which benefits Special Olympics Texas). A traditional Marian procession kicks off at 10:30 a.m. before the main gates officially open at 11 a.m.
VIP Food & Wine Upgrades
General entry is free, but if you want to go all out, you can snag tickets online for three exclusive events:
Italian Wine Tour (Saturday, 12–3 p.m.): Sip your way through Italy’s 20 wine regions.
Dinner Under the Stars (Saturday, 7–9:30 p.m.): An after-hours, four-course meal with wine and an Italian movie.
Sunday Spaghetti Supper (Sunday, 1–3 p.m.): A massive, family-style pasta feast.
Pro-Tips for the Weekend
Bring shade and seats: Covered areas are scarce, so pack a hat, umbrella, and a lawn chair or blanket.
Furry friends welcome: Well-behaved, leashed dogs are totally fine to bring along.
Leave the cash at home: This is a cashless event. Outside coolers, food, and drinks are also a no-go.
The Details
When: Saturday, Oct. 10 (11 a.m.–6 p.m.) & Sunday, Oct. 11 (11 a.m.–5 p.m.)
Where: Levy Event Plaza, 501 E. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving.
Tickets: Free general admission; special events ticketed separately.
Dining and Cooking