It’s not exactly a secret that Melbourne is home to one of the world’s best music scenes, but it’s no slouch when it comes to amazing food, wine and fashion either, and when they all get combined you know you’re probably in for a treat.
Now, the city is getting a big new addition to its cultural calendar from October 19-23, as La Dolce Italia festival arrives in The Paddock at Federation Square with a stack of exciting events, from masterclasses with some of the country’s best chefs followed by a night of jazz and blues, to the ultimate version of pizza and beer night with a gourmet 7-slice degustation.
There’s even a two-part festival of fancy beverages, with a day of Gin & Vodka followed by Champagne, Prosecco & Sparkling showcasing the best each booze has to offer across the whole weekend. And finally, a day of fashion gathers some of the best designers from across the globe into a maze of greenery.
It all sounds like the perfect way for any lover of the finer things to spend a few spring days in the city, whether you’re after a casual night of pizza and beer, so check out the full rundown below and head to the La Dolce Italia website for more info.
We’re not saying you’ll be flipping dough like this, but you’ll definitely learn how to make a great pizza
Couture in The Courtyard
Thursday October 19 – Tickets and more info
Weave your way through an intricate maze of floral-draped greenery described as ‘Tetris meets Dior’, showcasing spring fashion from a range of Australia’s top designers, including Jason Grech, Kara Breadmore, Rachel Gilbert, Santina Ponte and more.
Masterclass: A Culinary Experience
Friday October 20 – Tickets and more info
Indulge your Masterchef fantasies as some of the country’s best chefs give interactive cooking demonstrations, including Melbourne’s own world champion pizza maker Johnny Di Francesco, international seafood chef Pete Hilcke, and acclaimed cake master Shan Weerasiri. And of course, there’ll be drinks on arrival and plenty of food, too.
Jazz Under The Stars
Friday, October 20 – Tickets and more info
After a day of gourmet food, it’s probably the perfect time to unwind with some music, and you’ll be able to relax with an evening of brilliant jazz and blues from Australian jazz icons Vince Jones and Nina Ferro.
Gin & Vodka Festival
Saturday October 21 – Tickets and more info
The weekend kicks off with the first of two perfect events for the beverage lovers out there, as you drink your way through a range of the best gin and vodka Australia has to offer, soundtracked by a host of top-notch DJs including DJ AK and Chloe Wilson. There’ll be a selection of food trucks to line the stomach, but if you grab VIP tickets you’ll be treated to chef-prepared food in the marquee too.
Champagne, Prosecco & Sparkling Festival
Sunday October 22 – Tickets and more info
If you’re more of a wine fan, then a celebration of the best bubbly from Australia and across the world on a Sunday afternoon might be more your style, with a host of music to keep the mood high. And if you can’t decide whether it’s spirits or sparkling, you can always grab a bargain two-day ticket and try both.
Beer & Pizza Degustation
Monday October 23 – Tickets and more info
They may have saved the best until last with this one, capping the weekend off with the ultimate pizza and beer night, featuring 7 big slices from Melbourne’s best pizza chefs including Johnny Di Francesco, each paired with a different beer – and music from Bella Ciao and Italy’s Francesco Misitano to really set the scene.
