One of the organisers, Patrick Zirilli said that after visiting the Melbourne Italian Festa a few years ago, the organising team were inspired to host their very own in Griffith.

"Over 60 percent of Griffith residents can claim Italian heritage so it only makes sense to have our own festival to celebrate Italian culture and preserve our heritage and traditions" Mr Zirilli said.

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The event is open to all members of the community, with high hopes to attract 2500 to Yoogali's Yellow Tail Park between 12pm and 6pm.

"In 2019 we sold 1800 tickets so we are aiming even higher this year" Mr Zirilli said.

Already, more than 500 tickets have been sold to interstate visitors, a significant amount from Sydney and then some more from Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and to people from Fremantle in Western Australia.

However given Greater Sydney is currently facing a fresh outbreak of the highly contagious delta strain of the novel coronavirus, the festival these ticketholders may not be able to attend.

"We are keeping a close eye on restrictions and we have begun contingency planning, which we will assess later this month" Mr Zirilli said.

"The team have the communities best interests at heart and whatever is the safest option to do is the way we will go."

According to Mr Zirilli 'great entertainment has been booked' with Traditional Italian bands Siesta Cartel and Made in Italy, well known tenor Lorenzo Ianotti and comedian James Liotta all attending the event.

"We are also especially thankful to all of our sponsors during this busy time organising the event, especially Rombola's Family Farms" Mr Zirilli said.

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There will also be a range of local restaurants who will have their food on display and for purchase, market holders with traditional Italian wear and local wineries who will be showcasing some mouthwatering Italian varietals.

"We are super excited to have an Italian History Exhibition on display that will provide visitors an insight into Italian migration to the area" Mr Zirilli said.

All kids entertainment will be free, including a selection of rides and face painting with pasta eating and tarantella competitions also providing free entry for those who think they are game.

Tickets can be purchased online at https://griffithitalianfestival.com/ or by visiting the Griffith Visitor Information Centre.

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