On 2 March 2025, Nelson’s Italian Festival drew over 8,000 people to Lower Trafalgar Street and Trafalgar Park for a day of food music, and community. We spoke with Flavia Spena, founder of ViaVio and driving force behind the event alongside Club Italia, about how it all started, what’s made it such a local favourite, and why now’s the time for businesses to get on board for the 2026 edition.
This year’s Nelson Italian Festival drew an incredible crowd – what inspired you to start it in the first place?
I wanted to create something that brought people together — Italians and non-Italians — through Italian food, music, and culture. Nelson has a deep Italian heritage, with Club Italia founded in 1931 and it deserved a proper celebration. What started as a small community gathering has now become a real highlight on the local calendar.
How has the festival evolved since its first edition?
Dramatically! We started with just 800 people in our first year, then 5,000 last year — and this year we hit 8,000! We closed the main street and extended to Trafalgar Park, which gave people space to roam, relax, and enjoy the day — and they loved it. We also added a children’s football tournament this year, which brought so much energy, and our cooking demonstrations, with three top Italian chefs from local restaurants, were a real hit.
How do you think events like this contribute to Nelson’s cultural identity? What impact does it have on the city?
It’s about connection. Events like this showcase the richness of Nelson’s multicultural roots — and they bring people together in the most joyful way. It’s not just about Italians; it’s about community. Local businesses get a boost, families come out in the sunshine, and there’s a real sense of pride. Honestly, it’s now Nelson’s number one cultural event of its kind — and we’re so proud of that.
Organising a festival is no small feat – what’s the part you enjoy the most?
The moment the gates open and you see people arriving, smiling, eating gelato, dancing to the music — that’s the best part. All the hard work melts away when you see people genuinely having a great time.
Are there any special highlights or moments from this year that stood out for you personally?
So many! The Tarantella dance circle was huge this year. The singer coming from Italy. The Italian classic and sport cars and motorbikes display drew a massive crowd — we’re hoping to have even more next year. The chefs had the crowd hanging on every word (and bite!). And the weather… the sun was shining bright all day — we couldn’t have asked for more. It really turned into something special.
What are your hopes for the festival’s future?
That we keep growing while staying true to our roots. More food, more music, more community — and definitely more Italian classic/sport cars and motorbikes! But also that it continues to be a day where people feel connected, proud, and welcomed.
The festival will be back on 1 March 2026. What would you say to a business or organisation considering getting involved next year?
Do it! The reach of people passionate about Italy and Italian products is huge, the energy is unmatched, and it’s a chance to be part of something people really love. Whether you’re showcasing a product, sharing a service, or just want to support the community, this is the event to be part of.
