A celebrity chef, glorious food, lively music and gelato are the recipe for a real taste of Italy in the city.
For the seventh year running Peterborough Italian Festival is back on Saturday September 12 and Sunday September 13 and this year features special guest, commendatore Antonio Carluccio, OBE, OMRI, restaurateur and TV personality.
Carluccio’s, Antonio’s Italian restaurant, will be hosting a mushroom stall at this year’s festival. Antonio last appeared at the festival in 2011 and makes a welcome return. He will be on hand on the Saturday to help people with their purchases, whilst also signing copies of his latest book.
Antonio Carluccio, of Carluccio’s restaurant, said: “I am very glad to be in Peterborough again, the bastion of Italianity. I always have a great time in Peterborough so I am looking forward to another visit. The city is always welcoming and with so many Italian residents I know we will enjoy a splendid weekend.”
The two day festival in Cathedral Square celebrates all things Italian and is organised by Peterborough’s Italian Community Association and is supported by the city council.
Annette Joyce, service director city services and communications at Peterborough City Council, said: “The Italian festival is always the perfect opportunity to spend time with friends and family and enjoy a slice of ‘la dolce vita’. Knowing that as esteemed a guest as Antonio will be visiting is just another reason to come into town.
“We’ll be sharing more details about the festival over the coming weeks but for now, save the date and look forward to a fantastic weekend.”
Hugely popular, this lively event is always packed and has a fantastic atmosphere. The city centre will be buzzing with music and dance, tasty delights from the Italian market and bakery, and another thing Italy is famous for – gorgeous cars and scooters.
We can’t wait – fingers crossed we see some Italian weather too!
Festival photos: Chris Brudenell