Step inside and you discover an absolutely stunning Italian forum, rich in detail, with Juliet balconies that make you feel like you have landed in Verona. Itis, quite simply, the most fitting backdrop on the Central Coast for what is now one of the region's most beloved annual events.
This May, The Galleria once again transforms into little Italy for two unforgettable days of passion, flavour and tradition—the Central Coast Italian Weekend, Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May..
A Festival Born from Passion
The Galleria has proudly hosted the Central Coast Italian Festival every year since 2010, bringing the magic of Italy's culture and diversity to local residents and visitors alike. What began as a community celebration has grown into a two-day spectacular that draws crowds from across the region and beyond - and entry remains completely free.
This is not a watered-down theme event. This is Ettalong Beach within the shores of Broken Bay.
Two Days of Pure Italia
Vino, birra, caffe, cannoli, cannelloni, crostini, pizza, pasta, piadina - the food alone is worth the trip. Stallholders and The Galleria's own restaurants and cafes join forces to create a feast that spans the piazzas, courtyards and covered walkways - meaning the festivities go ahead rain, hail or shine.
But the Italian Weekend is so much more than food. Folk dancing, classical performance, live music, song, comedy, fashion, film, puppetry and even a cavalcade of Italian cars all feature across the two days. Expect Italian singers performing for dancing, a pasta-eating competition, and a gelato licking contest - all the spontaneous, joyful chaos that makes Italian culture so irresistible.
The Village Sets the Scene
The Galleria is a quirky time capsule of Mediterranean architecture, dramatic paintings, sculptures and terraces — a Venice-like maze built in 1979 and still utterly one of a kind. During Italian Weekend, every corner of this extraordinary space comes alive with artisan stallholders, handcrafted goods, Italian-inspired fashion and homewares, and the warm hum of a community at its very best.
And while you're there, step into Coastal Hatters — The Hatteria @ The Galleria — where a beautifully curated collection of hats makes the perfect accompaniment to a day dressed in the spirit of la dolce vita.
The Central Coast at Its Very Best
The Galleria at Ettalong Beach has been the heart of this community for 46 years. Events like the Italian Weekend are a reminder of why.
For one glorious weekend in May, it throws open its arms and invites everyone - residents, visitors, families and food lovers - to pull up a chair, pour a glass, and raise a toast
