The Italian Cultural Center of Minneapolis/St. Paul upcoming events

Torino and Piemonte: Educational Trip – October 10-24, 2026 (10 Jan 2026)

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 12:00:00 GMT

TORINO

October 10 - 24, 2026

Given the popularity of this destination, we are returning to Torino again in 2026! I am delighted to lead you to discover my hometown, a true gem off the beaten path.

Torino is a elegant city, rich in history, once Italy's first capital, known for its world- class museums, art, stunning Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture, expansive piazzas and covered arcades (porticoes), perfect for walking. A paradise for foodies, Torino is also famous for its Aperitivo culture, delicious food (chocolate!) and historic cafés.

Our itinerary will also take you to the countryside of Piedmont, outside Turin: enjoy the excitement of a Truffle hunt in the beautiful Langhe region, famous for its stunning landscapes and some of Italy's best wines (Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo) and specialty foods (white truffle, hazelnuts).

Your immersion in Piedmontese culture will include a 2-week language course where you will have the opportunity to improve your language skills. Language classes are offered at beginner and more advanced levels.

Torino and Piedmont offer an authentic Italian experience with fewer crowds than other destinations in Italys: truly a fantastic destination that will make a memorable vacation.

https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/06/t-magazine/turin-italy-guide-hotels-restaurants.html

https://foodandtravel.com/food/cover-interviews/somaia-hammads-turnin

For details of the itinerary, please click HERE.

I am looking forward to lead you in this next adventure!

Astrid Garino, MD
President, The Italian Cultural Center of Minneapolis/St.Paul

Questions? Email: astrid@theitalianculturalcenter.org

Celebrate Ferragosto with the ICC (16 Aug 2026)

Sun, 16 Aug 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Ferragosto is one of Italy’s favorite summer traditions, a time to take a break, gather with family and friends, share food, and enjoy the height of summer.

Join the Italian Cultural Center for a festive Ferragosto picnic at beautiful Keller Regional Park.

This year, the ICC will be serving hamburgers and Italian sausages hot off the grill, along with soft drinks, sparkling water, wine, and beer. We will also have fresh watermelon and gelato to complete the summer celebration.

Come enjoy an afternoon of food, conversation, and connection with the ICC community.

Registration is required.

Questions? Contact Ron Lattin at ron@theitalianculturalcenter.org or call/text 612-272-5312.

We look forward to celebrating with you!

SPECIAL SCREENING of RISO AMARO, directed by Giuseppe De Santis (26 Aug 2026)

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Italian Film Festival of Minneapolis / St. Paul (IFF), the Italian Cultural Center's signature annual event, celebrates the best of contemporary and classic Italian cinema each year. In addition to IFF and the Center's ongoing Cineforum series, IFF also presents special screenings throughout the year in partnership with local theaters and community organizations. Following the wonderful success of our March presentation of Stromboli, we are delighted to continue the series with Giuseppe De Santis's acclaimed classic Riso Amaro (Bitter Rice) on Wednesday, August 26, in partnership with Archives on Screen, Twin Cities, at the historic Heights Theater.

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

ABOUT THE FILM

Female rice workers in Northern Italy's Po Valley battle heat, exhaustion, and homicidal lust in this neorealist-ish pulpy melodrama. Jewel thief Francesca (Doris Dowling) escapes the police by hiding out among the rice harvesters, befriending Silvana (Silvana Mangano) until her ex-accomplice Walter (Vittorio Gassman) arrives on the scene. Solidarity between documented and undocumented female workers is needed to fight abusive bosses, manipulative male lovers, and a rice heist that would rob the women of their meager wages. This steamy classic is the perfect screening for late August!