Rounding out the circuit of Italian festivals in the state, the São Pedro Italian Festival takes place in the interior of São Paulo on August 21, 22, and 23. The festival marks its 13th edition, celebrating Italian immigration in the late 19th century.
According to City Hall, during the 20th century, São Pedro’s population was at one point half made up of immigrants and their descendants, mostly Italians. For this reason, the festival celebrates local history and culture, acknowledging the economic contribution that immigrants made to São Pedro at the time.
Furthermore, the event serves a tourism purpose, as it attracts visitors and boosts the local economy through hotels, retail, restaurants, and services. In 2026, the organizers expect to welcome approximately 10,000 visitors.
This year, the big news is the new venue: Parque Hípico. City Hall, which is responsible for organizing the event, explained that the change was made to increase capacity and to provide visitors with greater comfort and safety.
The new venue also offers free parking as well as brick-built restroom facilities.
What can you expect from the São Pedro Italian Festival?
The main attraction of the festival, Italian cuisine, is curated by Chef Ludmilla Fonseca, who served as a consultant and closely oversaw the development of the dishes being served.
The 2026 edition features approximately 18 local businesses. Participants received training in best practices for hygiene, food handling, and food safety, as well as customer service guidelines.
The announced menu features classics of traditional cuisine, such as pasta, pizza, risotto, polenta, focaccia, and antipasti. The menu also includes cured meats, traditional sweets, wines, and craft beers.
While enjoying the delicious food at this Italian festival in São Paulo, visitors can also enjoy musical performances, including traditional dance groups and a play area for children.
The venue also offers free culinaryworkshops focusing on Italy’s main techniques and recipes.
Be sure to plan a visit!
The 13th São Pedro Italian Festival takes place August 21–23: Friday and Saturday, from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; and Sunday, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Admission is free, and the event takes place at the Itagiba Leite Filho Equestrian Park and Rodeo Event Space, next to the Bordadão, in the municipality of São Pedro.
