Italian Republic Day Festival Brings La Dolce Vita to Pretoria

The Italian Republic Day Festival returns to Pretoria on Sunday, 7 June 2026. This annual celebration of Italian culture promises a full day of authentic food, wine, classic cars, and family fun at the Italian Club in Groenkloof.

What Happens at Republic Day

 

The festival runs from 9am to 5pm and offers something for everyone. Over 20 Italian food stalls will serve everything from wood fired pizza to fresh pasta. Visitors can also browse more than 40 vendors selling Italian fashion, leather goods, shoes, toys, and gifts.

The drinks selection includes Italian wine, beer, Prosecco, and the famous Aperol Spritz garden. Coffee lovers will appreciate the Illy coffee available throughout the venue.

Car and Bike Display

 

One of the main highlights is the impressive display of Italian vehicles. Hundreds of cars and motorbikes will be on show from clubs including Ferrari, Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo, Abarth, FIAT, Maserati, and Lancia. Bike enthusiasts can expect displays from Ducati, Vespa, and the Italian Motorcycle Club.

 

Only Italian cars and bikes are allowed to exhibit on the field. Display vehicles must arrive between 8 am and 10 am and cannot leave before 1 pm.

New Illy Lounge Experience

 

This year, the exclusive Illy Lounge Experience debuts for guests seeking a more comfortable festival visit. The package includes access to a shaded seating area with views over the festival grounds, complimentary Illy coffee and Italian mineral water, one complimentary Aperol Spritz, and dedicated waiter service. Tickets are sold in pairs and include one complimentary parking spot at the Illy Experience parking area.

Why This Festival Matters

The Italian Club Pretoria has been the home of the Italian community in the city since 1950. Republic Day celebrates the national day of Italy while bringing together locals who appreciate Italian culture, food, and automotive excellence. It is a rare opportunity to see so many Italian supercars and classic bikes in one place outside Italy.

The event draws families, car enthusiasts, food lovers, and anyone looking for a relaxed Sunday with a European atmosphere.

Practical Details

 

Date: Sunday 7 June 2026

Time: 9 am to 5 pm (gates close at 3 pm)

Venue: Italian Club Pretoria, 78 George Storrar Drive, Groenkloof, Pretoria

Tickets: R110 to R145 for adults, R80 to R90 for concessions

Booking: Available online at Quicket (no tickets sold at the gate)

Parking: R30 per vehicle at 75 Totius Street, Groenkloof. Disabled parking available at the main entrance

Kids: Under 12 tickets include access to the play area with toddler playground and Clamber Club

Contact: 071 767 9691 or admin@csipretoria.co.za

 

Important rules: No pets, no outside food or drinks, no sports balls, weapons, or unauthorised drones. Tickets can be scanned from your phone or printed at home.