We are happy to offer gift certificates for membership and classes at the ICC.
Giving a membership or language class as a present to your close friends and family is a unique and wonderful way to spread the joy of the Italian experience and to introduce them to a vibrant community of Italian native speakers, Italophiles and millennia of Italian art, literature, culture and daily life. It truly is a gift that keeps on giving.
Certificate options:
→ $50 = Individual Membership
→ $80 = Family Membership
→ $120 = Membership + 1 Private Lesson
→ $280 = One YOUTH term language class at any level (ages 3-17)
→ $350 = One ADULT term language class at any level (ages 18 and older).
Membership is required to enroll in language classes.
A perfect gift at any time of the year, and for any occasion, to say "Benvenuto" to the singular experience of all things Italian.
Grazie mille!
Private lessons offer personalized, one-on-one instruction tailored to your goals, pace, and learning style. Semi-private lessons are designed for a small group (two or more learners) who wish to study together with shared goals and a customized plan. Lessons can focus on conversation, grammar, reading, writing, and pronunciation, and are available online or in person with flexible scheduling.
Cancellation Policy Please notify your instructor at least 24 hours in advance if you need to cancel or reschedule a lesson. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice are charged the full lesson fee.
Not sure in which class to register?
A professional Italian language proficiency evaluation is available for a $50 fee. This process helps identify the class that best matches your current level and learning goals.
1. REGISTER ONLINE and pay $50.
2. Download, print, and complete THIS PLACEMENT TEST (PDF).*
3. Email a scanned copy or clear photo of your completed test to luisa@theitalianculturalcenter.org Luisa O’Gara, Director of the Adult Language Program.
You will be contacted within 72 hours to schedule a Zoom conversation with an instructor to further assess your oral skills. During this meeting, you will discuss your results and determine which class best fits your language needs and personal goals.
*This test is for new ICC students with previous knowledge of Italian who are registering for the first time. Students registering for Beginner 1 do not need to take this test.
Improve your Italian language skills while exploring Modena and the Emilia Romagna region!
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its extraordinary architectural masterpieces, Modena is also celebrated for its rich culinary traditions, iconic sports cars, and world-class opera heritage.
Your 2 week-stay will include daily language classes (Mon-Fri) at Romanica, Accademia Italiana di Lingua e Cultura, an accredited School for the teaching of Italian, recognized by Italian Ministry of Education, where you will improve your grammar and conversation skills.
On this exclusive itinerary created for a small group (max 14 people), you will discover the history and culture of Modena and nearby jewel towns, including Bologna, Parma, and Mantova.
You will explore the region's artistic masterpieces, experience Modena's love for music and fast cars and savor and learn about its culinary excellences, including traditional balsamic vinegar, Parmigiano Reggiano, tortellini, and Lambrusco wine.
I am excited to be your tour leader again in 2026 and look forward to traveling with you! For questions, please email astrid@theitalianculturalcenter.org.
Astrid Garino, MD
President of ICC
For detailed information on the itinerary and package, click HERE
Rates:
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, 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, in the beautiful Langhe region, famous for its stunning landscapes and its production of 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 at an excellent school where you will have the opportunity to improve your language skills.
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.
For details of the itinerary, please click HERE.
Please review, sign and return the Waiver if you decide to participate to the trip.
I am looking forward to lead you in this next adventure!
Astrid Garino, MD President, The Italian Cultural Center of Minneapolis/St.Paul
Registration opens January 10, 2026
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A detailed presentation of the program will be offered in person on
Thursday, February 19, 10-11 AM
Sunday, February 22, 1-2 PM
at the Italian Cultural Center
In this 10-session (20 hour) course, students will be able to offer and follow directions around town, describe cities and places with greater detail and accuracy, ask and answer questions about hotel accommodations, travel, transportation, and special occasions. Students will continue to practice use of the present tense verbs and will be introduced to the simple past tense. Students will complete Chapters 6 and 7 in the textbook.
Prerequisite: Beginner Level 2
Cost: $350
If you have not taken any other classes at ICC before, PLEASE SIGN UP TO TAKE OUR PLACEMENT TEST HERE. An instructor will assess your level.
Use these links and order a copy of your text and workbook prior to the first day of class:
Textbook: NEW ITALIAN ESPRESSO UPDATED EDITION (BOOK+E-BOOK)
Workbook: NEW ITALIAN ESPRESSO UPDATED EDITION
Note: The E-book includes Audio and Videos and interactive exercises used throughout the course. The same textbook will be used for our entire Beginner series. Initial Online Access is good for 14 months.
If interested, English Grammar for students of Italian is a great reference for differences in English and Italian grammar structures.
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Cancellation & Refund Policy
The goal of this course is for students to build and expand on their vocabulary, grammar skills, and oral proficiency in a more sophisticated manner using mood and tense as they approach Upper Intermediate level fluency. Students will engage with a variety of activities by continuing with and completing the textbook Nuovo Espresso 3, each chapter of which provides the opportunity for discussion on cultural aspects of contemporary Italian life.
Prerequisite: Intermediate Level 2
If you have not taken other classes at ICC before registering, REGISTER HERE for our PLACEMENT TEST. An instructor will assess your level.
Please order a copy of your text prior to the first day of class:
Amazon:
NUOVO ESPRESSO 3 (Book only)
NUOVO ESPRESSO 3 (Book+Interactive e-book)
Libreria Pino:
The duration of access to the E-book is 14 months.
Note: the textbook includes homework exercises (with keys).
Prerequisite: Pre-Intermediate 2
NUOVO ESPRESSO 2 (Book only)
NUOVO ESPRESSO 2 (Book+Interactive e-book)
NUOVO ESPRESSO 2 Esercizi supplementari
This course is designed for Advanced Beginner and Pre-Intermediate students who want to practice and consolidate previously learned grammar structures in new contexts to improve automaticity, comfort and confidence! Not sure if you are "ready" for the next level in your sequence? This course is for anyone who wants to better digest important concepts previously introduced (verbs tenses, pronouns, and prepositions), apply them in more spontaneous yet focused communicative situations. Students will expand vocabulary and hone both listening comprehension and speaking skills through a variety of student-centered oral activities in class, and written homework (including mini-compositions) will be assigned for further reinforcement of the material. As always, each session explores aspects of Italian life and culture, and materials will be provided by the instructor. We look forward to building your confidence through this rewarding NEW approach and alternative option to our standard sequential curriculum.
Pre-requisite: Beginner 4 (or permission from the Director)
If you have not taken any other classes at ICC before, PLEASE SIGN UP HERE FOR OUR PLACEMENT TEST. An instructor will assess your level.
Materials: provided by the instructor on the first day of class
Materials provided by the instructor.
In this 10-session (20-hr) course for absolute beginners, students will learn the basic fundamentals of Italian grammar and essential communications skills such as how to introduce oneself, greet others politely and informally, get to know others by asking and sharing information about oneʼs place of origin, current residence, occupation and hobbies, as well as how to order in a cafe and a restaurant. This course also addresses various aspects of Italian culture and daily life. Students will complete the first 2 chapters of the textbook, integrating written and oral grammar exercises with lots of speaking practice in mini-dialogues and conversational scenarios.
Please use these links to order a copy of both the text and workbook prior to the first day of class:
Textbook: NEW ITALIAN ESPRESSO (Beginner/Pre-Intermediate) UPDATED ED. TEXTBOOK + E-BOOK
Workbook: NEW ITALIAN ESPRESSO (Beginner/Pre-Intermediate) UPDATED ED. WORKBOOK
Note: The E-book includes Audio and Videos and interactive exercises used throughout the course. Online Access is good for 14 months, but as long as you are enrolled with ICC you will continue to have free access! The same textbook will be used for our entire Beginner series.
This "Special Topics" language and culture course is designed for students at the Intermediate level (B1) or above who wish to approach language learning in a different way. Short stories from the greatest Italian 20th century authors from up and down the peninsula! Students will expand their vocabulary, strengthen oral competency, and deepen their understanding of Italian literature and history by reading and discussing selected short stories from 20th-century authors in lingua originale. Students will participate in guided discussions to explore each work’s literary style, themes, and socio-historical context, and will hone their speaking skills through grammatical exercises aligned with each reading. This course offers the balance between structure and flexibility by providing the opportunity to practice specific grammatical structures and vocabulary found in the readings in a personally meaningful and authentic conversational context.
Cost: $280
Materials: Please purchase a copy of the textbook Racconti Del Novecento - Realtà Regionali.
New to ICC? If you haven’t taken a class with us before, please SIGN UP HERE FOR OUR PLACEMENT TEST so an instructor can assess your level.
The goal of this 10-session (20-hr) course is for beginner students to build their fundamental vocabulary and grammar skills in order to speak more extensively about themselves, and to get to know others better by speaking about their daily activities and routines, their occupation and their hobbies, interests, likes and dislikes. Students will be able to make plans for specific days and times of day, as well as pose questions to get more detailed information about people, places and things. Students will also explore various cultural aspects of Italian life and focus heavily on using verbs with comfort and ease in specific conversational contexts. Students will complete Chapters 4 and 5 in the textbook.
Prerequisite: Beginner Level 1
Note: The E-book includes online access to Audio and Videos and interactive exercises used throughout the course. The same textbook will be used for our entire series Beginner 1-5.
Prerequisite: Upper Intermediate 1
If you have not taken any other classes at ICC, REGISTER HERE for our PLACEMENT TEST . An instructor will assess your level. You must be a B1 or above to enroll in this course.
Use this link and order a copy of your textbook prior to the first day of class:
NUOVO ESPRESSO 4 (Book+Interactive e-book)
In this course of the "Advanced Practice and Consolidation" series, designed for students at or close to the C1 level, we will continue to review (practice) and reinforce (consolidate) language skills at the Upper Intermediate level while working towards a more Advanced level of accuracy and fluency. Students will CONTINUE the textbook Nuovissimo Progetto Italiano 3 as they study grammar structures in greater depth and more nuanced detail, and increase vocabulary to discuss socio-cultural topics relevant in contemporary Italy.
Prerequisite: a previous iteration of Advanced Practice and Consolidation at the C1 level (or permission from the Director)
If you have not taken other classes at the ICC before, PLEASE REGISTER HERE for our PLACEMENT TEST so an instructor can assess your level.
Please order the textbook and workbook before the first class. Nuovissimo Progetto Italiano 3 TEXTBOOK (+ versione interattiva) and Nuovissimo Progetto Italiano 3 WORKBOOK (Quaderno degli Esercizi)
Capire l'Italia is an advanced/upper-intermediate level comunicative course about the language and culture of Italy. The course is organized into 5 thematic units - Customs, Mass Media, Cinema, Society, and Design - which illustrate fundamental aspects of the contemporary Italian language and culture around the turn of the millenium. Advanced students looking to participate in stimulating discussions regarding Italy's language and culture will enjoy engaging with sophisticated texts focused on different topics related to contemporary Italian society. The goal of the course is for students to expand their vocabulary and improve accuracy when speaking, commenting, questioning, and expressing opinions using a wide variety of appropriate and advanced grammatical structures, as well as to build their cultural competence by diving deeper into more complex aspects of Italian history and society.
Prerequisite: Upper Intermediate 3 (or permission from the Director)
If you have not taken any other classes at ICC before, REGISTER HERE for our PLACEMENT TEST. An instructor will assess your level.
Please use order a copy of the book Capire l'Italia e gli italiani (Guerra Edizioni) before the first class. Here are a few links:
Capire l'Italia e gli italiani from Amazon
Capire l'Italia e gli italiani from IBS
Capire l'Italia e gli italiani from Glu
This NEW COURSE is designed for Intermediate students who want to practice and consolidate previous introduced grammar structures in new contexts to improve automaticity, comfort and confidence! This course is for anyone who wants to improve their use of verbs, (especially the past tenses), as well as pronouns and prepositions, and use them in everyday communicative situations with greater ease and spontaneity. Students will expand vocabulary and hone both listening comprehension and speaking skills through a variety of student-centered oral activities in class, and written homework (including mini-compositions) will be assigned for further reinforcement of the material. We look forward to building your confidence through this rewarding NEW approach and alternative option to our standard sequential curriculum. Materials will be provided by the instructor.
Pre-requisite: Pre-Int 1 (or permission from the instructor)
Nuovo Magari C1/C2 is a brand-new book by one of our favorite editors! Students will love this advanced/upper-intermediate level comunicative course all about contemporary Italy and Italian culture. A wide variety of authentic texts and audio-visual materials serve as our springboard to explore and discuss key aspects of Italian society like you have never approached them before. The goal of this course is for advanced students to expand their vocabulary and improve accuracy when speaking, commenting, questioning, and expressing opinions , as well as to build their cultural competence by diving deeper into more complex conversational topics.
Please use order a copy of the book from your preferred bookseller before the first lesson. Here are a few sample links:
Nuovo Magari C1/C2 from Amazon - 2024 edition! (not 2014 edition)
In this 10-session (20 hour) course, students will be able to tell time, discuss the calendar, speak about oneʼs daily routine, describe oneʼs family, family activities, and relate past events with more confidence, building on the simple past tense. Students will complete Chapters 9 and 10 in the textbook.
Prerequisite: Beginner Level 3
Note: The E-book includes Audio and Videos and interactive exercises used throughout the course. The same textbook will be used for our entire Beginner series, but initial Online Access is good for 14 months.
In this course of the "Advanced Practice and Consolidation" series, designed for students at the B2 level or above, we will continue to review (practice) and reinforce (consolidate) language skills at the Upper Intermediate level while working towards a more Advanced level of accuracy and fluency. Students will begin the textbook Nuovissimo Progetto Italiano 3 to further internalize familiar grammar structures, understand more nuanced detail of when and why to use them, and to increase ease and automaticity. Students will also focus on improving vocabulary in order to discuss numerous socio-cultural topics relevant in contemporary Italy.
Prerequisite: A previous iteration of Practice and Consolidation (B2 or above)
Please order both the textbook and workbook before the first class:
Nuovissimo Progetto Italiano 3 TEXTBOOK (+ versione interattiva)
and
Prerequisite: Pre-Intermediate 1
Please order a copy of the books prior to the first day of class:
Note: Nuovo Espresso 2 will be used as the main text for the remaining levels of our Pre-Intermediate courses, but the instructor will also include new outside materials which will be provided in .pdf format.
The goal of this course is to bring students to a solid A2 level. Students will focus on expanding their use of the past tenses as they discuss their youth, and will begin to distinguish between the simple (passato prossimo) and imperfect (imperfetto) past to express backgrounded vs. foregrounded actions, as well as repeated and habitual routines in the past. Students will also distinguish between the present and the present progressive (or gerund) form of verbs, as well as use object pronouns to refer to people, places and things when relaying information. Students will practice making, accepting and refusing invitations, nd discuss the advantages and disadvantages of technology. Each session incorporates discussion on cultural aspects of Italian life. This course covers Chapters 12-13 in the textbook.
Prerequisite: Beginner Level 4
Use these links and order copies of your text and workbook prior to the first day of class:
Textbook: NEW ITALIAN ESPRESSO UPDATED EDITION -(BOOK + E-BOOK INTERATTIVO)
Note: The E-book includes Audio and Videos and interactive exercises used throughout the course. The same textbook will be used for our entire Advanced Beginner Series, but Online Access is good for only 14 months!
Note: The E-book includes Audio and Videos and interactive exercises used throughout the course. The same textbook will be used for our entire Advanced Beginner Series, but Online Access is good for only 14 months.
In this 12-session (12-hr) ONLINE course for absolute beginners, students (age 12-17) will enjoy this communicative online learning experience by engaging in dynamic activities while following an age-appropriate materials. Students will complete the first 2-3 chapters of the textbook, integrating written and oral grammar exercises with lots of speaking practice in mini-dialogues and conversational scenarios. After each lesson, families will receive an email summary of the topics and activities covered in class, along with assigned material to complete, practice, and review (approximately 15-20 minutes a day) before the next class.
Students will learn the basic fundamentals of Italian grammar and essential communications skills such as how to introduce oneself, greet others politely and informally, get to know others by asking and sharing information about oneʼs place of origin, current residence, studies and hobbies, as well as how to order in a cafe and a restaurant. This course also addresses various aspects of Italian culture and daily life.
Please use this link to purchase book Espresso Ragazzi 1, incl. e-book access code. The E-book includes Audio and Videos and interactive exercises used throughout the course. Online Access is good for 14 months.
NOTE: NO classes on March 31 and April 7.
Cost:
ICC MEMBERS: $240
NON-MEMBERS: $260
We are delighted to invite you to a special presentation of the upcoming 17th edition of the Italian Film Festival of Minneapolis / St. Paul. On Friday, February 13, from 6:30 to 8:30 P.M. at FilmNorth, Tiziana Cervesato, Festival Director, and Tommaso Cammarano, Artistic Director, will present this year's exceptional lineup. In person free presentation & aperitivo. .......................................................................
We are delighted to invite you to a special presentation of the upcoming 17th edition of the Italian Film Festival of Minneapolis / St. Paul. On Friday, February 13, from 6:30 to 8:30 P.M. at FilmNorth, Tiziana Cervesato, Festival Director, and Tommaso Cammarano, Artistic Director, will present this year's exceptional lineup. In person free presentation & aperitivo.
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Event Details 6:30 p.m. – Aperitivo 7:00 p.m. – Presentation FilmNorth, 2441 University Ave W, Suite 100, Saint Paul, MN 55114 For parking information click here. .......................................................................
Event Details 6:30 p.m. – Aperitivo 7:00 p.m. – Presentation FilmNorth, 2441 University Ave W, Suite 100, Saint Paul, MN 55114
For parking information click here.
The Italian Film Festival of Minneapolis/St. Paul is proudly presented by the Italian Cultural Center in partnership with MSP Film Society and The Main Cinema.
Join us in celebrating Italian cinema and making a lasting impact on the arts community.
Grazie ai nostri sponsor e sostenitori!
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Produttore d’Élite
Produttore Esecutivo
Luigi Bernardi
Produttore
Assistente di Produzione
Brian Balleria & Joan Bechtold
Ann Burns
Matt & Amber Christian
Albert & Susan Colianni
Conversazione e Storie Italiane - Mpls
Astrid Garino & Massimo Costalonga
Ron Curran
Tom Fabbro
Mark Giorgini
In Memory of Michael and Victoria Frediani, early residents + purveyors of "Gelato e Dolci" in St. Paul Joe Tamburino
In Memory of Michael and Victoria Frediani, early residents + purveyors of "Gelato e Dolci" in St. Paul
Joe Tamburino
Regista
Catherine Allan
Anthony & Giada Nucera
Ryan and Luisa O'Gara
Riggs-DeMay Family
Nancy & Gary Schaefer
Leah and James Sheehy
Jennine Speier
Dominic Sposeto
Sandra Tighe
Kathy Moe & Jonathan Watson
Aiuto Regista
Anonymous
Nancy & Ben Antin
Laura Mauro & David Brown
Giacomo and Denise D’Aurora
Deborah Pile & Jack Flynn
Corby & Ginny Kistler
John & Sheila Moroney
Karen and Joseph Pingatore
P. Scialla
Institutional Support
Join us for a 60-minute in-person lesson designed for preschool and kindergarten children with little or no exposure to Italian. Our engaging sessions focus on vocabulary building and oral communication skills through interactive songs, stories, games, and imaginative play. Students will also learn about contemporary Italian culture around traditional holidays.
After each lesson, families will receive an email summary of the topics and activities covered in class. We will also provide links to the music, online games, and videos used, allowing families to reinforce the material at home throughout the week.
Activity Book included!
NOTE: NO classes on March 14 and April 4.
Join us for a 60-minute in-person lesson designed for Elementary School children with little or no exposure to Italian. Students will build their confidence in speaking and listening by focusing on vocabulary and oral communication skills through interactive songs, dances, stories, games, and imaginative play. They will also explore simple reading and writing in Italian. The lessons will emphasize contemporary Italian culture, traditional holidays, and geography.
After each lesson, families will receive a summary of the topics and activities covered, suggestions, and links for optional exercises to practice at home during the week.
This 60-minute in-person lesson is designed for Upper Elementary and Middle School students with little or no exposure to Italian.
The focus will be on building vocabulary, enhancing oral communication skills, reading, writing, pronunciation, spelling, as well as cultural competency.
Students will have a structured and progressive learning experience by engaging in dynamic activities while following an age-appropriate workbook. Our dynamic activities include role-plays, music, movement, and games, all conducted entirely in Italian. We also emphasize contemporary Italian culture, traditional holidays, and geography.
After each lesson, families will receive an email summary of the topics and activities covered in class. We will also provide suggestions and links for optional exercises to review and practice at home during the week.
NOTE: NO class on March 14 and April 4.
Explore our engaging 60-minute, in-person, communicative Italian lesson for Middle and High School students with little or no exposure to Italian at home.
Students will build their speaking and listening comprehension confidence, improve their reading and writing skills in Italian, and explore grammatical concepts while expanding their cultural competency.
Students will have a structured and progressive learning experience by engaging in dynamic activities while following an age-appropriate materials. After each lesson, families will receive an email summary of the topics and activities covered in class, along with optional material to practice the material during the week.
Please use this link to purchase book Espresso Ragazzi 1, incl. e-book access code.
Italiano Espresso per Genitori is a 10-hr course for parents whose children are enrolled in ICC's Youth School classes. This course is designed to help parents who have previously studied a bit of Italian improve their familiarity with Italian grammar and speak with more confidence. Each session focuses on essential vocabulary, phrases, and grammar, and follows the same book as the ICC Adult School classes.
Session Dates/Times: Saturdays 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Space is limited, so register now to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to enrich your family’s multilingual experience! Enrollment is limited to parents whose children are currently enrolled in ICC's YS classes.
To order a copy of the Textbook and Workbook please search your favorite bookseller's website, but be sure to order the updated edition which includes online access to the e-book.
Join us for a 60-minute, in-person, full-immersion lesson designed for preschool kids and kindergarteners who have previous exposure to Italian and the opportunity to hear Italian at home.
These lessons will focus on vocabulary building and oral communication skills through interactive songs, stories, games, and imaginative play. We will also emphasize contemporary Italian culture, traditional holidays, and geography.
After each lesson, families will receive an email summary of the topics and activities covered in class. This email will include links to the music, online games, or videos used in class, giving families the option to reinforce the material at home throughout the week.
Explore our engaging 60-minute in-person lessons, designed for early elementary school children (1st-3rd graders) who want to immerse themselves in the Italian language or who have Italian-speaking backgrounds at home.
These sessions aim to boost students' confidence in speaking and listening comprehension while introducing them to fundamental reading and writing skills in Italian. Activities are diverse and include interactive elements such as singing, dancing, acting, role-playing, and educational games.
Following each lesson, families will receive a comprehensive email summary detailing the topics and activities covered during class. Additionally, we provide tailored suggestions for supplementary materials to facilitate continued practice and reinforcement of learning throughout the week.
Join our 60-minute, in-person, full-immersion Italian lesson designed for Middle School students with prior exposure to Italian or the opportunity to hear Italian at home.
In this engaging course, students will:
Students will have a structured and progressive learning experience by engaging in dynamic activities while following an age-appropriate workbook. Our dynamic activities include role-plays, music, movement, games, and crafts, all conducted entirely in Italian. We also emphasize contemporary Italian culture, traditional holidays, and geography.
Use this link to purchase book, Espresso Ragazzi 1 with e-book access code.
Explore our engaging 75-minute, in-person, full-immersion lesson for teens with previous exposure to Italian, or students who are bilingual in another romance language.
Students will improve precision in their speaking and listening comprehension skills, build confidence in communicating with peers, expand their vocabulary and use of more complex grammar while deepening their cultural competency through comparisons informed by readings, writings, audio-visual media, and their own experiences. Discussions will be entirely in Italian and students will have the chance to engage with College-Board materials designed to prepare them for an eventual Italian AP Exam.
Students will have a structured and progressive learning experience by engaging in dynamic activities and following an age and level-appropriate textbook. After each lesson, families will receive an email summary of the topics and activities covered in class, along with specific exercise suggestions to practice the material during the week.
Join the ICC in celebrating this year’s Carnevale di Venezia by designing, creating, and decorating your own traditional mask in papier-mâché mask. (In Italian, the material is called cartapesta).
Don’t miss this truly memorable event—a hands-on, super-fun cultural learning experience for all ages, especially grandparents and grandkids together.
Each family will create a mask design, build the armature (frame), and cover the surface with cartapesta. The mask will be dry and ready for you to paint and decorate on Fat Tuesday. The sky’s the limit when it comes to color, shine, and bling.
This event is recommended for children ages 6 and up, accompanied by an adult. Space is limited, so please register!
Vi aspettiamo!
JOIN US (Members and Non-Members) for the ICC Youth School's celebration of Carnevale di Venezia, a cherished Italian tradition! Discover the history and meaning of the world-famous Carnevale, explore its elaborate masks, and learn how they are an integral part of Venetian culture. Watch video clips of the glamorous Ballo del Doge (Doge's Masquerade Ball) and Volo dell’Angelo (Angel's Flight) to immerse yourself in a truly magical atmosphere.
Taste typical Carnevale treats from across Italy—known by different names depending on the region: chiacchiere, cenci, frappe, crostoli, bugie, and more—delightful strips of fried dough dusted with powdered sugar. Kids will also have fun decorating masks while learning an easy recipe for these treats.
The event is free, but we ask that you register to help us plan.
(Donations are warmly appreciated!)
In our last Circolo Letterario, we explored the work of Jhumpa Lahiri, focusing on her profound relationship with the Italian language and her choice to write and create in Italian.
In this new Circolo Letterario, presented in English by Pieranna Garavaso, professor emerita at the University of Minnesota Morris, we turn our attention to the life and work of writer Goliarda Sapienza (1924–1996), author of the now celebrated novel L’arte della gioia (The Art of Joy, 1998). Sapienza’s writing, long overlooked in her lifetime, has come to be recognized for its daring exploration of personal freedom, female autonomy, and the quest for authenticity in 20th-century Italy. The first section of L’arte della gioia has also recently been brought to the screen in a successful two-part television series of the same name, directed by Valeria Golino, further renewing interest in Sapienza’s work.
This presentation is especially timely as part of our lead-up to the 17th Italian Film Festival of Minneapolis / St. Paul (February 26-March 1), where we will screen Fuori by Mario Martone, a film that brings to life a pivotal chapter of Sapienza’s life described in her book L'università di Rebibbia, which chronicles Sapienza’s reclusion in a well-known Roman jail. Through both her literature and this cinematic portrait, we will discuss the social, cultural, and political context that shaped Sapienza’s life and her fearless, uncompromising voice.
Pieranna Garavaso is native Italian and came to the US to earn a PhD in Philosophy (at the U of Nebraska Lincoln). She taught Philosophy at the University of Minnesota Morris for 34 years. She was awarded the UMN Morris Alumni Association Teaching Award (2003), the Horace T. Morse Alumni Association Undergraduate Teaching Award (2004) and the UMN Morris Faculty Research Award (2017). Her areas of research include History of Analytic Philosophy, Philosophy of Mathematics, and Feminist Philosophies. She has published articles in Italian and English and authored, co-authored or edited several books; the last collection she has edited is the Bloomsbury Companion to Analytic Feminism (2018). As Emerita/retired she plans to devote more time to reading and discussing Italian literature.
In 2021, ICC was appointed Presidio Letterario of the Società Dante Alighieri (DA), one of the most important Italian institutions for the promotion and appreciation of Italian language and culture since 1889. ICC is now part of a network of cultural centers in Italy and abroad promoting events and initiatives related to Italian literature. Since 2009 DA has officially been part of the jury of Premio Strega, the most prestigious Italian literary award.
The INTERMEDIATE 'ACCELERATED' OPTION!
Take advantage of our engaging 45-minute ONLINE conversational Italian practice sessions for Middle and High School students with previous experience studying Italian but no necessary exposure to Italian at home. This class is considered ʼAcceleratedʼ not only because of student maturity and motivation, but because in addition to the in-person Saturday lessons at ICC it offers students a chance to practice their communication skills and reinforce previously presented material in smaller groups ONLINE mid-week for an additional 45 minutes.
This second mini-lesson each week ensures students engage effectively with the material on a regular basis, at regular intervals, and are better prepared for each Saturday, thus helping them reach their proficiency goals sooner. Students will build their confidence in comprehension and speaking skills, improve their automaticity in Italian, and apply grammatical concepts while focussing on proficiency in everyday conversational topics.
TORINO
Please join us at the Italian Cultural Center on 250, N Third Avenue , Suite 625 for a presentation of the itinerary of the Educational Trip to Torino and Piedmont in October 2026 !
For details of the itinerary please click HERE
The presentation is free but registration is appreciated for organizational purposes.
Light refreshments will be served.
A presto !
Italiano Espresso per Genitori is a 10-hr course for parents whose children are enrolled in ICC's Youth School classes. This course is designed to help parents - who have previously studied Italian for over a year, or who are bilingual in Spanish - improve their previous knowledge of Italian grammar and speak with more confidence. Each session focuses on essential vocabulary, phrases, and grammar, and follows the same book as the ICC Adult School classes.
Session Dates/Times: Saturdays 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Riscaldatevi! Warm- up with ICC’s once-a-month Afternoon Caffè e Conversazione Series for Pre-Intermediate and Intermediate students (levels A2-B1). We will meet the 3rd Saturday of each month. Come when you can!
Open to both MEMBERS and NON-MEMBERS!
Practice your Italian conversational skills in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. Sip un caffè, enjoy un tè caldo, and savor un biscottino or un cornetto while engaging in authentic discussion on variety of topics—all while improving fluency and confidence when speaking Italian.
Each 60-minute session offers the perfect opportunity to meet others, exchange stories, and practice conversation at the Pre-Intermediate and Intermediate levels. Immerse yourself in Italian culture, make new friends, and experience the joy of authentic conversations in a friendly community of fellow language enthusiasts.
Please Note: Cancellations require a minimum of 36 hours’ notice for a refund. (We ask you let us know no later thanThursday evening if you can't attend on Saturday afternoon.)
Please join us at the Italian Cultural Center on 250, N Third Avenue, Suite 625 for a presentation of the itinerary of the Educational Trip to Torino and Piedmont in October 2026!
A presto!
--- Update 2/9/2026: Grazie a tutti for your generosity! We continue to welcome sponsorships throughout the festival. Please note that at this stage we may no longer be able to include your name in printed or on-screen promotional materials. However, sponsors will still be acknowledged on our website, in our newsletter, and across our social media channels, according to their sponsorship level. ---
Contribute to the Vibrant Arts and Cultural Scene of the Twin Cities
Step into the spotlight and help us bring the Italian Film Festival of Minneapolis/St. Paul to life! From February 26 to March 1, 2026, at The Main Cinema, we’ll celebrate the artistry and passion of Italian storytelling through contemporary masterpieces alongside timeless classics.
Event Details
When: February 26 - March 1, 2026
Where: The Main Cinema, Minneapolis (with easy parking access!)
All films are in Italian with English subtitles, offering an authentic and accessible experience.
Whether you're an organization or an individual, your contribution enriches the Twin Cities cultural landscape while allowing you to be part of a prestigious and meaningful cultural event. Benefits of Sponsorship Include:
How to Become a Sponsor: Explore the Sponsorship Package (View package HERE).
To Complete your Sponsorship: Click on the Register button and select the sponsorship level at which you’d like to support the festival.
For sponsorships of $1,000 or more, we prefer payment by check or Zelle to help us avoid transaction fees. If this works for you, please select ‘Invoice Me’ when prompted so we know to expect your check or Zelle.
Please make your check payable to Italian Cultural Center (250 Third Ave. N, Suite 625, Minneapolis, MN 55401) and include “IFF” in the memo line.
To send money directly into our Wells Fargo account, you can use any of the following three Zelle recipient options:
In Memory of Michael and Victoria Frediani, early residents + purveyors of "Gelato e Dolci" in St. Paul Level Design & Remodel Joe Tamburino
Level Design & Remodel
Immerse your child in the beauty of the Italian language and culture through our interactive story-time sessions and delightful social activities!
The Italian Cultural Center Youth School warmly invites families—parents, grandparents, and toddlers aged 6 months to 3 years—to join us for a series of 10 informal intergenerational gatherings on Saturday mornings at the ICC in the North Loop. Toddler Time is an interactive story-time combined with arts and crafts related to the story, and/or music (song and movement), and ends with some playtime so families can interact independently.
Session Dates: Saturdays from 9:30am - 10:20am (February 28 - May 9), with NO CLASSES on MARCH 14 and APRIL 4.
This series is FREE for all ICC Family Members.
Space is limited so REGISTER NOW, and don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to spark your child’s curiosity, build community, and lay the foundation for multilingualism!
PLIDA Certification Exam
Upcoming Session Information
Exam Session Date: June 10-11, 2026
Registration Deadline with ICC: May 18, 2026
Specific Sessions Offered: PLIDA Exam (Levels B1, B2, C1)
NOTE: Individual times for the oral section will be shared with each candidate closer to the exam date and will be assigned based on the order of registration.
Where: In-person at ICC, 250 Third Ave N., Suite 625, Minneapolis, MN 55401
When: Wednesday morning, 9am, 2026 (with oral exams scheduled in the afternoons on Wednesday, June 10 and Thursday, June 11. Your exact time slot will be based on the order in which you registered for the exam and will be confirmed two weeks before the exam.
Time: (Tentative Schedule)
Wed. 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. (Ascoltare 40' e Leggere 40', e Scrivere 60')
Wed. 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m. (Pausa Pranzo)
Wed. and Thurs. 1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. (Parlare – 15' + 15ʼ wait time in between candidates)
NOTE: Each ticket type must be purchased separately in its own transaction. (You cannot select multiple ticket types at once.)
How to Register: Before registering for the PLIDA exam at ICC, the candidate must enroll with the Società Dante Alighieri at dante.global. Be sure to use the same email address to enroll on dante.global that you will use to register for the PLIDA exam with ICC. Detailed instructions are available here . Once you have a portal account with SDA, you can register/enroll to take the exam at ICC. A few weeks before the exam session date, ICC will contact you to confirm all registration information is correct.
Refunds: THIS FEE IS NON-REFUNDABLE. If you are unable to take the exam on the original date for which you registered, you must provide a letter of explanation at least 15 days before the exam date. To be issued a credit for another exam session (at the same exam certification center and within 18 months of the original exam date), you must provide a medical letter of explanation within 15 days after the exam, as per Section 1.8 of the PLIDA Regolamento.
For any questions: sabrina@theitalianculturalcenter.org
