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

PLACEMENT TEST (Language Proficiency Evaluation) (01 Jan 2026)

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT

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.

Private and Semi-Private Lesson Packages (03 Jan 2026)

Sat, 03 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT

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.

GIFT CERTIFICATES: Give the Gift of Italian Culture! (05 Jan 2026)

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT

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 = Individual Membership + 1 Private Lesson

→ $280 = One YOUTH term language class at any level (ages 3-17)

→ $370 = 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!

SOLD OUT! 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

PLIDA B1 and B2 EXAMS - June 10, 2026 (10 Jun 2026)

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 14:00:00 GMT

PLIDA Certification Exam

Upcoming Session Information

PLIDA Exam Sessions (B1 and B2): Wednesday, June 10, 2026

Note: Individual time slots for the oral section will be assigned based on the order of registration and communicated closer to the exam date.

Registration Deadline: May 29, 2026

Levels Offered: PLIDA B1 and B2

Location: in-person at ICC, 250 Third Ave N., Suite 625, Minneapolis, MN

Tentative Schedule for Wednesday, June 10:

9:00 a.m.–11:20 p.m.
(Listening approx. 35-40 minutes, Reading 40 minutes, Writing 60 minutes)
11:30 p.m.–12:30 p.m.
(Lunch break)
12:30 p.m.– 5:00 p.m.
(Oral exams – approximately 15 minutes per candidate, plus waiting time)

Oral Exams may need to be scheduled on Tuesday, June 9 as well as Wednesday, June 10, depending on the number of candidates.

Your exact oral exam time will be confirmed approximately three weeks before the exam.

How to Register

Before registering with ICC, candidates must first create an account with the Società Dante Alighieri (SDA) at dante.global. Please use the same email address for both registrations. Detailed instructions are available HERE.

Once your SDA account is created, you may complete your registration for the exam at ICC. A few weeks before the exam, ICC will contact you to confirm your registration details.

Contact

For questions, please contact: sabrina@theitalianculturalcenter.org
Sabrina Infante, Esaminatrice e Responsabile per la Certificazione PLIDA

SERATA DI GIOCHI! Board Game Night in Italiano! - AS26SUMMER (16 Jun 2026)

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Join us for Game Night in italiano!

ICC native instructor Ileana Tamberlani will lead a small group (maximum of 8 people) through two exciting and creative games: Dixit and Code Names, all played in Italiano!

This event offers a fantastic opportunity to practice your speaking skills, unleash your imagination, and enjoy the company of fellow students in a relaxed and enjoyable setting. Plus, you can savor a glass of Prosecco while you play.

Don't miss out on this engaging and fun language-learning experience!

Prerequisite: Beginner 3 to Advanced.

Open to members and non-members

Refund policy: To receive a refund (minus an administrative fee), cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance.

For any questions, please email us at luisa@theitalianculturalcenter.org

GRAMMAR WORKSHOP - Verbi al Presente! - AS26SUMMER (22 Jun 2026)

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 22:30:00 GMT

How to describe current events

Join us for a two-hour workshop focused exclusively on the rules and uses of verbi al presente. Led by ICC native instructors Ileana Tamberlani and designed to review the most important conjugations, practicing them through games, conversation and activities in a variety of contexts.

Prerequisite: Beginning Level 2

Open to members and non-members

Refund policy: To receive a refund (minus an administrative fee), cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance.

For any questions, please email us at luisa@theitalianculturalcenter.org

Real Italian Conversation- Level A2/B1 - AS26SUMMER (22 Jun 2026)

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 22:30:00 GMT

This 90-minute conversation session, led by native instructor Eleonora Villani, is designed for adult learners from level A2 to B1 who want to move beyond textbooks and feel more comfortable, spontaneous, and confident in real-life conversations.
From the very first minutes, you’ll be speaking through guided conversation, interactive activities, and insights into contemporary Italian culture and everyday social topics. It is a practical and supportive space to expand your vocabulary, find your voice, and make your Italian sound truly natural.

Refund policy: To receive a refund (minus an administrative fee), cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance.

For any questions, please email us at luisa@theitalianculturalcenter.org

Una serata italiana FULL-IMMERSION! - AS26SUMMER (24 Jun 2026)

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Join us for an evening of full immersion into the Italian language!

ICC native instructor Ileana Tamberlani will guide a small group of students (maximum 10 people) in reviewing and practicing the language in an informal and fun atmosphere.

The evening will include grammar reviews, conversation practice, and games.

Schedule:

5:30-7:00 p.m.: Grammar in communicative contexts

7:00-7:30 p.m.: Aperitivo and conversation

7:30-8:30 p.m.: Conversation and games in Italian

This full immersion evening is for students who have completed the ICC's Beginner 4 (A1) level up to Elementary/Pre-Intermediate 3 (A2).

If you have not taken any other courses at the ICC, please contact the school before registering. An instructor will assess your level.

Tuition includes instructional materials.

Open to members and non-members

Refund policy: To receive a refund (minus an administrative fee), cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance.

For any questions, please email us at luisa@theitalianculturalcenter.org

NEW! Italian For Travelers-IN PERSON Wednesday evening - AS26SUMMER (24 Jun 2026)

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 22:30:00 GMT

This 10-session, 20-hour course is designed for beginner-level students who want a fast-paced, conversation-driven approach to learning Italian, especially with travel in mind. Whether you are preparing for a trip, exploring Italian culture, or reconnecting with your family origins, you will develop practical language skills for real-life situations in Italy.

Using a recently published textbook that reflects contemporary spoken Italian and up-to-date travel vocabulary, the course focuses on essential conversational scenarios such as ordering food, asking for directions, and navigating everyday interactions. At the same time, we will build a solid foundation in grammar to support communication.

Through short dialogues, interactive activities, and targeted vocabulary practice, we will work on speaking, listening, and comprehension skills, helping you feel more confident and comfortable in everyday travel situations in Italy.

Please order the book Viaggiamo in Italia 1 before the first class.

You can find the book here:

...................

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Before the first class: Full tuition refund, minus a $20 registration fee.
Before the second week: Students may withdraw and receive a refund, minus a $55 administrative fee.
After the second week: No refunds will be issued.

Please note: Regular attendance is strongly encouraged. If a student misses class for any reason, they will not be eligible for a refund or an individual make-up session.

Adult Beginner Level 2 - Wednesday Evening - AS26SUMMER (24 Jun 2026)

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 22:30:00 GMT

The goal of this 10-session, 20-hour course is for beginner students to strengthen their foundational vocabulary and grammar skills so they can speak more confidently and in greater detail about themselves. Students will learn to get to know others by discussing daily activities and routines, occupations, hobbies, interests, and likes and dislikes. They will practice making plans for specific days and times and asking questions to obtain more detailed information about people, places, and things. The course also explores key cultural aspects of Italian life and places strong emphasis on using verbs comfortably and accurately in specific conversational contexts.

Prerequisite: Beginner Level 1

Cost: $350

If you have not taken any classes at ICC before, PLEASE SIGN UP TO TAKE OUR PLACEMENT TEST HERE. An instructor will assess your level and help determine the most appropriate course for you.

Please use the links below to order both the textbook and the workbook prior to the first day of class:

Textbook: NEW ITALIAN ESPRESSO WORKBOOK+EBOOK (Beginner-Pre/intermediate) Updated edition

Workbook: NEW ITALIAN ESPRESSO WORKBOOK (Beginner/Pre-intermediate) Updated Edition

The eBook includes audio, videos, and interactive exercises that will be used throughout the course. Online access is valid for 14 months. To renew your license after expiration, please contact the ICC to receive a 50% discount.

Optional: English Grammar for students of Italian is a helpful reference for understanding differences between English and Italian grammar structures.

...........................................

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Before the first class: Full tuition refund, minus a $20 registration fee.
Before the second week: Students may withdraw and receive a refund, minus a $55 administrative fee.
After the second week: No refunds will be issued.

Please note: Regular attendance is strongly encouraged. If a student misses class for any reason, they will not be eligible for a refund or an individual make-up session.

CINEFORUM - C’è ancora domani (There's still tomorrow) (26 Jun 2026)

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 23:00:00 GMT

C'E' ANCORA DOMANI (THERE'S STILL TOMORROW)

Year: 2023

Directed by: Paola Cortellesi

Cast: Paola Cortellesi, Valerio Mastandrea, Romana Maggiora Vergano, Emanuela Fanelli, Giorgio Colangeli, Vinicio Marchioni, Francesco Centorame.

Cineforum is proud to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Italian Republic with a special screening of C'è Ancora Domani (There’s Still Tomorrow).

A box-office sensation by actress and comedian Paola Cortellesi in her acclaimed directorial debut, the film became the highest-grossing movie ever directed by a female Italian director and the tenth highest-grossing film in Italy of all time. Winner of six David di Donatello Awards, including Best New Director, Best Screenplay, Best Actress, the film had its Midwest Premiere at the 16th Italian Film Festival of Minneapolis/St. Paul, represented by actor Vinicio Marchioni, where it won the festival's Audience Award.

Set in post-war Rome, the film follows a working-class woman who dreams of a better future for herself and her teenage daughter while enduring abuse at the hands of her husband. When a mysterious letter arrives, she finds the courage to change the course of her life and pursue a better future, not only for herself, but also for the women who came before and after her.

Cineforum is now in a new location with a screening room!
The movie is in Italian with English subtitles

Event Details
6:00 p.m. – Aperitivo
6:30 p.m. – Movie Screening

FilmNorth, 2441 University Ave W, Suite 100, Saint Paul, MN 55114

For parking information, click here.

Space is limited to just 50 seats; once they’re gone, they’re gone.

Reserve yours today!

Curated and presented by Ileana Tamberlani, Programming and Administrative Manager of the Italian Film Festival of Minneapolis/St. Paul.

WORKSHOP - Review of Beginner 1 - AS26SUMMER (29 Jun 2026)

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Reinforcing the Basics

The goal of this workshop is to review and strengthen the fundamental grammar concepts introduced in Beginner Level 1. Participants will revisit essential structures such as basic sentence formation, common verbs, key vocabulary, and everyday expressions that form the foundation of Italian communication.

Through a variety of interactive games, guided conversation activities, and engaging new materials, students will have the opportunity to practice these elements in a supportive and dynamic environment. The workshop emphasizes repetition and meaningful use of the language to help learners develop greater automaticity, allowing them to respond more naturally and confidently in Italian.

Working in a small group led by ICC native instructor Ileana Tamberlani, students will receive personalized guidance and encouragement while reinforcing the basics needed to progress to the next level. This workshop is ideal for students who want to review, consolidate their knowledge, and build confidence before continuing their Italian learning journey.

Prerequisite: Beginner Level 1
Open to members and non-members

Refund policy: To receive a refund (minus an administrative fee), cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance.

For any questions, please email us at luisa@theitalianculturalcenter.org

Real Italian Conversation- Advanced Level - AS26SUMMER (29 Jun 2026)

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 22:30:00 GMT

This 90-minute conversation session, led by native instructor Eleonora Villani, is designed for learners at levels B2 through C2 and is intended for upper-intermediate to advanced students who want to move beyond basic conversation and express themselves with greater fluency, precision, and cultural awareness.
From the very beginning, you will engage in stimulating discussions through guided debates, interactive activities, and in-depth exploration of Italian society, culture, and current events.
This dynamic environment will help you expand your vocabulary, refine your register, and make your Italian sound authentic and natural.

Refund policy: To receive a refund (minus an administrative fee), cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance.

For any questions, please email us at luisa@theitalianculturalcenter.org

GRAMMAR WORKSHOP - Passato Prossimo- AS26SUMMER (06 Jul 2026)

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:30:00 GMT

How to tell stories in the past

Join us for a two-hour workshop focused on storytelling in the past tense. Led by ICC native instructor Ileana Tamberlani, you will practice using the passato prossimo and compare it with the past tense in English.

By the end of the workshop, you will feel more confident telling stories in Italian and will have a clearer understanding of this often tricky grammatical structure.

Prerequisite: Beginning Level 3
Open to members and non-members.

Refund policy: To receive a refund (minus an administrative fee), cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance.

For any questions, please email us at luisa@theitalianculturalcenter.org.

NEW! Real Italian Conversation- Level A2/B1 - AS26SUMMER (08 Jul 2026)

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 22:30:00 GMT

This 90-minute conversation session, led by native instructor Ileana Tamberlani, is designed for adult learners from level A2 to B1 who want to move beyond textbooks and feel more comfortable, spontaneous, and confident in real-life conversations.
From the very first minutes, you’ll be speaking through guided conversation, interactive activities, and insights into contemporary Italian culture and everyday social topics. It is a practical and supportive space to expand your vocabulary, find your voice, and make your Italian sound truly natural.

Refund policy: To receive a refund (minus an administrative fee), cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance.

For any questions, please email us at luisa@theitalianculturalcenter.org

GIOCHIAMO! Games and activities in Italiano -AS26SUMMER (13 Jul 2026)

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Join us for an evening of games and activities in Italiano. Led by ICC native instructors Ileana Tamberlani, this is an opportunity to to practice and review the language in a fun and engaging atmosphere.

Prerequisite: Beginner 3

Open to members and non-members

Refund policy: To receive a refund (minus an administrative fee), cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance.

For any questions, please email us at luisa@theitalianculturalcenter.org

INTERTERM! Italian For Travelers 2-IN PERSON Wednesday morning - AS26SUMMER (22 Jul 2026)

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 15:00:00 GMT

This 5-session, 10-hour course is designed for beginner-level students who want a fast-paced, conversation-driven approach to learning Italian, especially with travel in mind. Whether you are preparing for a trip, exploring Italian culture, or reconnecting with your family origins, you will develop practical language skills for real-life situations in Italy.

Prerequisite: Previous Italian for travelers course or Beginner 2

Please order the book Viaggiamo in Italia 1 before the first class.

You can find the book here:

...............................................

Refund policy: To receive a refund (minus an administrative fee), cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance.

For any questions, please email us at luisa@theitalianculturalcenter.org