Let’s celebrate Italian Heritage!

A vibrant Italian-Canadian community continues to bring significant contributions to the history and building of our city. The influences of the Italian-Canadian community extends widely to the social, cultural, and economic fabric of Hamilton now and for the future.

Festitalia is honoured to celebrate the contributions of our Italian-Canadian community members who are making our city a great place to work, play and live, while being committed to our roots and heritage. 

The Festitalia Italian Heritage Awards of Distinction were established in 2012 to recognize the leadership and contributions of women, men and youth of Italian ancestry or Italian affiliation. Most importantly, the Heritage Awards honour those who contribute to the development and well-being of others and the overall improvement of the community.

The Past Festitalia Chairpersons, who had volunteered and contributed to Festitalia over its many years, were the first Award recipients.  The Hamilton regional Clubs and the Canadian-Italian Business Professionals Association (CIBPA) were also recognized as part of the inaugural awards program.  Revised in 2013, the Awards also honour individuals from the City of Hamilton’s Italian-Canadian community in specific categories. 

Let’s celebrate Italian-Canadian Heritage as we invite you to join us to applaud and acknowledge the recipients of these prestigious awards.