Festa d’Italia will officially be making a return in June 2026 with DOUBLE the fun!
That’s right, this year's event will span two exciting days back at Boyd Conservation Park (8739 Islington Ave.)
Saturday, June 6, 2026. 12 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Sunday, June 7, 2026. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
The FREE fun-filled weekend will feature spectacular music, entertainment, art, food and so much more.
We are also excited to announce this year's headliner: Pupo & Band
Save the Dates!
The City of Vaughan is inviting Italian vendors offering authentic Italian cuisine, artisanal goods, handmade crafts and any other products that showcase the spirit of Italy. The first-round vendor call out submission deadline is April 1st.
Questions? Email us at festa@vaughan.ca
Festa d'Italia - More Information
-
Answer
The first round of vendor outreach will be exclusively for authentic Italian cuisine, artisanal goods, handmade crafts and any other products that showcase the spirit of Italy. The deadline for this round is April 1, 2026.
Participants - what is needed before the deadline of Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at noon?
- Participant Agreement Form: Festa d'Italia
- Payment
- For 2026, the food and business vendor price is discounted to $250 + HST for both days (regularly $550 + HST) - Cash‑only food vendors are not permitted. All food vendors must offer at least one form of digital payment (e.g., credit card, debit, or e‑transfer).
- $100 + HST for not-for-profit organizations for both days
- Pay online with credit card OR by cheque (see details on the agreement form)
- A Certificate of Insurance naming the Corporation of the City of Vaughan, and Toronto and Region Conservation Authority as additional insured – use the City’s template
If you are unable to get a Certificate of Insurance, email festa@vaughan.ca to find out how to purchase one-day event insurance.
Food vendors also need to provide:
- The York Region Vendor Application Form will be sent directly to York Region Health Department and provided to Events Staff.
- Form is found under “Vendors”: Food Vendors - York Region Application
- Any applicable licences (restaurant licence, refreshment vehicle licence, etc.)
- Refreshment vehicles must provide a valid City of Vaughan Refreshment Vehicle Licence
- Refreshment vehicles that do not have a valid City of Vaughan Refreshment Vehicle Licence must apply for one through the City of Vaughan (additional fees apply)
- Non-refreshment vehicles must provide a restaurant or business license along with a food handler certificate.
What to expect as a participant (booths, food vendors)?
- 10'x10' spot unless you have a food truck
- 1 table and 2 chairs will be provided
- Situated on grass
- Many booth participants and food vendors bring a 10'x10' tent with tent weights (staking is not permitted); no tent, pavilion, etc. is provided
- Electrical access and Wi-Fi are not available
- Generators are not provided
- No ATM will be available on site.
-
Answer
Headline: Pupo & Band will be performing on both days
Pupo & Band
- Enzo Ghinazzi, also knows as Pupo, from Ponticino , in the province of Arezzo, is a renowned Italian singer, songwriter, television presenter, and writer. He rose to fame in the late 1970s with catchy pop hits such as “Gelato al cioccolato” and “Su di noi,” becoming one of Italy’s most recognizable pop voices. Pupo achieved major success at the Sanremo Music Festival, notably in 1980 with “Su di noi,” and has earned multiple gold records throughout his career. Beyond his own performances, he is also celebrated as a songwriter, having co-written the international hit “Sarà perché ti amo” for Ricchi e Poveri. In addition to music, Pupo has enjoyed a long career in Italian television and remains popular internationally, continuing to tour and record into the present day.
Stage entertainment will also feature local singers, dancers, and top tier performances. More information about performers and exact times will be provided at a later date.
Check back for more information.
-
Answer
Volunteer with Us: Festa d'Italia 2026
The City of Vaughan is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to support our Festa d'Italia on June 6 & 7 at Boyd Park!
These events wouldn’t be possible without the help of dedicated volunteers like you. If you're interested in being part of the excitement, we invite you to apply by completing the Volunteer Application Form.
Volunteer Notes:
- Volunteer positions are filled on a first-come, first-served basis—so don’t wait!
- High school students: Volunteer hours will count toward your community service requirement.
Volunteer Duties Include:
- Assisting with event set-up
- Greeting and guiding guests
- Monitoring activity stations
- Supporting crowd control
- And more!
Be part of a memorable summer experience while giving back to your community.
Questions? Email us at festa@vaughan.ca.
-
Answer
Free shuttle bus services will be running from multiple locations across Vaughan throughout the event on both days.
Check back for more details closer to the event date.
-
Answer
The Festa d'Italia Sponsorship Program offers many sponsorship opportunities. Depending on the sponsorship level chosen, your company can receive logo recognition in our marketing materials.
Each year the generous support of our sponsors is recognized at a Sponsor Appreciation Event hosted by the Mayor and Members of Council.
For additional Festa d'Italia information, please view the 2026 Festa d'Italia Sponsorship Package.
For more information on sponsorship opportunities, please contact Mike Recine at mike.recine@vaughan.ca
-
Answer
1. What is the date and time of the festival?
Festa d’Italia will take place on Saturday, June 6, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m and Sunday, June 7, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.2. Where is the festival being held?
The festival will be hosted at Boyd Conservation Park located at 8739 Islington Ave, Vaughan, ON3. Will there be shuttle buses?
Yes! Shuttle buses will be available to transport attendees to and from the festival site, making it easier to get to the event. More details coming soon.4. Is there an entry fee?
No, the event is FREE to attend! Enjoy the full experience without any admission cost.5. Are children allowed at the festival?
Absolutely! The festival is family-friendly and offers activities for all ages. Everyone is welcome!6. Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you're welcome to bring your own picnic items, including snacks and drinks; however, BBQs are not permitted within the event site. A designated BBQ area is available outside the event space, where you’re welcome to set up. We’ll also have a wide variety of food and beverages available for purchase from local vendors. For more details, please refer to the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority guidelines.7. Can I bring my own chairs or blankets?
Yes, feel free to bring your own chairs or blankets to sit on and enjoy the event at your leisure. Please note that tents and canopies are not permitted, as the event site must remain fully visible and accessible for guests of all ages.8. Are pets allowed?
Pets are welcome if they are leashed at all times. Please be mindful of the crowd and other attendees.9. What types of entertainment will there be?
Expect live music, traditional Italian dances, and much more! View the full entertainment lineup and schedule in the 'FREE Stage Performances Section' when available10. Will there be restrooms on-site?
Yes, we’ll have portable washrooms available. Accessible washrooms will also be available on-site11. Is the event wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the festival is fully wheelchair accessible, including pathways, seating areas, and restrooms.12. What should I bring to the festival?
We recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and your appetite for some delicious Italian food! Don’t forget your picnic items, chairs, and blankets to make your experience even better.13. Can I volunteer at the festival?
We’d love to have you! Please visit our 'volunteer section' for more information and to sign up.
