The city’s fifth Italian Festival was the busiest since its introduction and the crowds loved a taste of La Dolce Vita in the city centre!
Several thousand people packed into Cathedral Square over the two days with the Sunday particularly popular due to the appearance of TV chef Gennaro Contaldo.
the Festival was organised by the Italian Community Association with support from Peterborough City Council and sponsorship by Peterborough Marriott of the 30-piece marching band from Foggia, which delighted crowds with four performances throughout the day.
Annette Joyce, Head of Commercial Operations at Peterborough City Council, told ESP – “The Italian Festival is now in its fifth year and once again it was a huge success.
“The festival continues to attract large audiences from in and around the city and it’s events like these that transform the city centre into a vibrant and exciting destination, fostering a sense of pride and well-being.”
There were more stalls than ever before, showcasing a wide range of Italian foods from pizza and pasta to biscuits and cakes and wine-making was a popluar new addition to the festival this year.
Classic Italian cars and motorcyles were on display and dozens of local Italian businesses were there to promote their products and enjoy the sunshine.
Gennaro Contaldo from TV’s Two Greedy Italians couldn’t wait to get involved and even arrived early! He insisted on a meet and greet session with the stall holders and the public and signed copies of his latest book.
During the afternoon he entertained the crowds as he cooked a pasta dish, a rice dish and pumpkin risotto live on stage.
Heart FM’s Kev Lawrence compered the event along with Vittorio from the Italian Community Association and ESP was there to capture the action and report back.
We think it was another great event and can’t wait for next year’s!
Photos: Chris Brudenell.
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