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Food and Wine

Loved throughout the world, Italian cuisine offers a great variety of tastes and ingredients. Tracing its roots from the 4th century BC, the flavors and dishes of Italy have been influenced by rulers and conquerors, political upheaval and the discovery of the New World. Each region and even province has its own food traditions, specialties and wines.

From pasta making to seasonal dishes and wine tastings, the Italian Cultural Center offers many events to celebrate Italy’s rich culinary landscape.

Check out our calendar of events by clicking the links on this page.

Join our email list to receive the latest information on all events and special opportunities to celebrate Italian culture with other local Italians and italophiles.

As an independent, non-profit organization, our cultural programming initiatives depend on the support of our member base. Please consider supporting the ICC and its programs by signing up as a volunteer or becoming a member today.

Buon appetito!

Upcoming events

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Aperitivo & Conversation with Maestro Christopher Franklin of MN Opera

When
15 May 2026

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Location
250 Third Avenue N, Suite 625, Minneapolis

Spaces left
24

Register

Join us at the Italian Cultural Center for a special evening for ICC members and their guests, featuring prosecco, light bites, and conversation with Maestro Christopher Franklin, Principal Conductor of Minnesota Opera and conductor of their upcoming production Pagliacci, running May 9 to 17.

This free event offers a rare opportunity to meet the maestro during the run of one of opera’s most powerful and celebrated Italian works, along with a behind-the-scenes conversation about opera, conducting, Italy, and the artistic life.

Maestro Franklin launched his career in Italy, where he continues to live and work, and has built an international reputation for bringing energy, clarity, and artistry to both the concert stage and the opera house. His recent engagements include Otello in Novara and Rovigo, a concert with Juan Diego Flórez in Budapest, and productions at major houses and festivals in Paris, Valencia, Barcelona, Tokyo, Parma, and across Italy.

Join us for a warm, engaging evening of conversation, refreshments, and connection as we celebrate the beauty and power of Italian opera with one of Minnesota Opera’s leading artists.

Space is limited. Registration required.

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Italy’s Wine Showdown: Central North vs. Central South

When
05 Jun 2026

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Location
Celtic Junction Arts Center - 836 Prior Avenue North St. Paul, MN 55104

Spaces left
72

Register

Join the Italian Cultural Center for the first annual Wine Showdown, a lively tasting event that is part of our 20th anniversary celebration year, bringing together great wine, spirited regional pride, and a little friendly competition.

For this special evening, two expert guides will go head-to-head in a showcase of Italy’s extraordinary wine culture. Five wines from Central-North Italy will face off against five wines from Central-South Italy in a fun and engaging format filled with tasting, storytelling, comparison, and conversation. Along the way, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the range and character of Italian wines.

This is not just a wine tasting. It is a chance to experience Italy in a dynamic and memorable way, as our two presenters make the case for their regions, pour by pour. Guests will enjoy tasting pours of all ten wines, light bites, and the opportunity to cast their votes to help decide the winner of this first annual extravaganza.

Whether you are a dedicated wine enthusiast or simply love Italy and a festive evening out, this promises to be a joyful and distinctive celebration of ICC’s 20th anniversary year.

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