by The 8th Annual Little Italy San Jose Italian Festival returns on Sunday, October 5, 2025, bringing Italian culture, music, food, and heritage to the heart of California’s Silicon Valley. This annual celebration is one of San Jose’s most anticipated cultural events, drawing thousands of visitors from across the Bay Area.
With authentic Italian cuisine, live performances from world-class entertainers, family activities, and a showcase of Italian cars and traditions, the San Jose Italian Festival is a true celebration of Italian-American heritage and community spirit.
Dates and Timing
- Festival Date: Sunday, October 5, 2025
- Festival Hours: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Opening Ceremony: 11:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
- Afterparty Speakeasy Jazz Concert at Italian Cellar Speakeasy Bar: 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Venue of the Little Italy San Jose Italian Festival
- Location: Little Italy District, San Jose, California
- The festival takes place in the historic Little Italy neighborhood, featuring outdoor stages, vendor booths, and the Little Italy Museum. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of San Jose while being transported to an Italian village setting.
Entertainment and Events Schedule
Main Stage Highlights
- Opening Ceremony: 11:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
- National Anthems: 11:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Cory Pesatauro (Accordion Entertainer): 12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
- Vanessa Raci (Italian Jazz): 1:15 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
- Vanessa Raci & Cory Pesatauro: 1:45 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.
- Pasquale Esposito (Headliner): 3:15 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
- Anthony Nino Lane Band: 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Museum and Speakeasy Entertainment
- Gianfranco & Griff (Accordion) at Little Italy Museum Balcony: Afternoon appearances
- Stella Heath & Doug Ellington at Italian Cellar Speakeasy: 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Special Attractions
- Pizza Acrobatics: Performances throughout the day
- Children’s Face Painting: Fun for young festival-goers
- Little Italy Train Rides: A family favorite for kids
- Little Italy Museum Tours: Learn about the Italian community’s heritage
- Free Ferrari & Lamborghini Showcase: Stunning Italian cars on display
Food and Drinks
One of the biggest draws of the San Jose Italian Festival is its authentic Italian food:
- Traditional Italian Cuisine: Pizza, pasta, gelato, cannoli, and more.
- Food Vendors: Local and regional Italian restaurants and chefs bring flavors of Italy to San Jose.
- Beverage Options: Italian wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic refreshments.
- Desserts: Handmade Italian sweets and pastries available throughout the day.
Family Activities at the Little Italy San Jose Italian Festival
The festival is designed to entertain guests of all ages:
- Face Painting and Kids’ Train Rides: Perfect for families with children.
- Interactive Performances: Pizza acrobatics and live demonstrations.
- Cultural Exploration: Museum tours and traditional music bring Italian culture to life.
Vendors and Shopping
- Local Artisans: Handcrafted goods, jewelry, and Italian-inspired souvenirs.
- Specialty Booths: Italian products including olive oils, sauces, and imported goods.
- Community Stalls: Learn about local organizations and Italian-American heritage.
Facilities and Visitor Information
- Admission: Free for all visitors
- Accessibility: Festival grounds are stroller and wheelchair friendly.
- Rest Areas: Shaded seating and dining zones available.
- Location Perks: Easy access from downtown San Jose with nearby parking and public transport options.
Conclusion
The San Jose Italian Festival 2025 in Little Italy is set to be a cultural highlight on October 5, 2025. With its mix of authentic Italian food, world-class live performances, family-friendly activities, and iconic Italian car showcases, the event offers something for everyone.
Whether you come for the music, the food, or the community spirit, the festival is a perfect way to celebrate Italian heritage in the heart of California. Mark your calendars and get ready to experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of Italy in San Jose this fall.
