By: Amrit Kamaal, Peak Associate
One of the most anticipated free summer events in the Lower Mainland, Italian Day on the Drive is a day of cultural fusion and culinary expertise. Since 2010, this event has signified the unity and revival of Italian Canadian history on Commercial Drive. This year’s festival occurred on June 9, during Italian Heritage Month, with the theme of “storia” (history or story). The theme highlights the importance of “keeping traditions and important values alive while bridging the past with the present.”
The history of this beloved festival emerged in the 1940s, when many Italians began immigrating to Vancouver for livelihood, with the majority choosing to reside in the Commercial Drive area. As they established their businesses, they began integrating parts of their Italian heritage into the community around them, from landscapes to traditions. Their street parades from the ‘60s led to the creation of the first Italian Mercato (Market) Day in the late ‘70s. These parades featured floats, stalls of food and other goods, and a way to celebrate and embrace their culture in their new home. While it initially ran from 1977 to 1985, more than thirty years later, many Italian Canadians wished to restore this cultural fusion festival. With the help of various businesses, such as Il Centro Italian Cultural Centre, the Commercial Drive Business Society, this wish was granted in the summer of 2010.
“The Drive was filled with mouth-watering aromas from the surrounding food trucks, the festive atmosphere, and lively, classical tunes originating from all over Italy.”
Hosted on the “Little Italy” of Vancouver, this year’s instalment of the lively street party extended over 14 blocks and welcomed over 300,000 attendees. The event began midday at the Main Drive Stage on 2nd avenue after the commencement ceremony, officially beginning the festivities. The Drive was filled with mouth-watering aromas from the surrounding food trucks, the festive atmosphere, and lively, classical tunes originating from all over Italy.
It was impossible to go even one step without thinking about devouring some gourmet Italian delicacies, like from Casereccio Foods. People showed their spirit by covering themselves in hats or clothing, and even the Italian flag painted on their faces. Each corner showcased a new exhibition of art or cultural expression, from talent and fashion shows to Italian musicians and DJs. Some even expressed their love of Italian food by entering the pasta eating competition.
