Your Festa d’Italia questions, answered!
The wait is almost over! The City of Vaughan’s highly anticipated Festa d’Italia, presented by LiUNA! Local 183, is just a few weeks away, and it’s FREE!
Here are some of your top questions, answered:
When and where is Festa d’Italia taking place?
This celebration of Italian culture and heritage is on Saturday, June 6 from noon to 9 p.m. and Sunday, June 7 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Boyd Conservation Park (8739 Islington Ave.).
How can I get to Festa d’Italia?
To help residents and visitors get to the event, the City is offering free shuttle bus service. With nine pickup/drop-off points throughout the city, the shuttles offer an easy and convenient way to get to and from Festa d’Italia. Hop on a shuttle bus from:
- Al Palladini Community Centre (9201 Islington Ave.)
- Chancellor Community Centre (350 Ansley Grove Rd.)
- Dufferin Clark Community Centre (1441 Clark Ave. W.)
- Father E. Bulfon Community Centre (8141 Martin Grove Rd.)
- Fossil Hill Public School (2 Firenza Rd.)
- Tommy Douglas Secondary School (4020 Major Mackenzie Dr. W.)
- Vaughan City Hall (2141 Major Mackenzie Dr.)
- Woodbridge Library (150 Woodbridge Ave.)
- 100 Apple Mill Rd. (near the VMC Library) *paid parking
The buses are fully accessible and will run about every 30 minutes from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, June 7. There will be City staff and directional signage at the pickup/drop-off points to help guide you. Drop-offs are not allowed at the park.
Are the shuttle buses accessible?
Yes, all buses are provided by York Region Transit and are fully accessible.
I have a family member with accessibility needs. Can I drop them off at the park and drive out?
No, drop-offs are not allowed at the park. All shuttle buses are fully accessible.
Are the event and shuttle busses wheelchair and stroller friendly?
We are using York Region Transit buses. While not a Wheel-Trans service, York Region Transit shuttle buses are accessible and have space for mobility devices and strollers.
The festival, including pathways, seating areas and washrooms, is fully accessible for mobility devices and strollers.
Is there parking at Boyd Conservation Park for Festa d’Italia?
This year, there is no on-site parking available at Boyd Conservation Park for Festa d’Italia on Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7. Drop-offs are not allowed at the park. To help residents and visitors get to the event, the City is offering free shuttle bus service.
Are there other transportation options to get to Festa d’Italia?
Yes, there are other transportation options for residents and visitors to get to the event.
- Park-and-walk locations
Eventgoers can park for free and walk from:
- Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Elementary School (191 Crofters Rd.)
- St. Andrew Catholic Elementary School (151 Forest Fountain Dr.)
- Pine Grove Public School (86 Gamble St.)
- Emily Carr Secondary School (4901 Rutherford Rd.)
- Park on streets neighbouring Boyd Conservation Park
Residents and visitors may also park on neighbouring streets where parking is permitted. City By-law enforcement staff will be monitoring the area and enforcing parking regulations. To learn more about on-street parking rules, visit vaughan.ca/parking.
Why is there no on-site parking?
This year, the City decided to remove parking from the event site to open the area to more exciting entertainment, activities and vendors showcasing the beauty and vitality of Italian culture. Limiting the park to pedestrian traffic only also increases the safety for eventgoers.
Is the event free?
Absolutely! Entrance to Festa d’Italia is FREE, as is the shuttle service to and from the event. We have tons of amazing vendors lined up in a Food Zone and Marketplace that will be selling food and other items.
What are some of the event highlights?
There will be something for everyone at this family-friendly event with spectacular music, entertainment, food and activities, including:
- Official welcome from Mayor Steven Del Duca and Members of Council
- Headline performances by Pupo & Band
- A special performance by comedian Joe Avati
- Delicious eats from more than 60 food and beverage vendors
- Family activities including hands-on arts and crafts, drop‑in bocce court play, inflatables.
- Olive oil tasting and pasta shaping workshops (limited capacity)
- Traditional Italian dances
- Music by DJ Danny D, Joée, Armando, DBG, N’Riko, Zoe
- Emcees Tony Monaco from Z103.5 Radio and Giuseppe the MC
- And so much more!
What’s the bathroom situation?
Portable washrooms, including accessible washrooms, will be available on site.
Can I bring my dog?
Pets are welcome – but keep them on a leash at all times!
What about blankets and chairs?
Feel free to bring chairs and blankets to make your experience more comfortable. Tents, canopies and barbecues are not permitted on the event site as it must remain fully visible and accessible for guests of all ages. We also recommend you bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes and your appetite for some delicious food!
Where can I learn more about Festa d’Italia?
For more event details, including shuttle bus and stage schedules, visit vaughan.ca/festa.
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