Tampa Sister Cities Board of Directors Meeting
2025-07-16 18:00 - 20:00, 2025-08-20 18:00 - 20:00, 2025-09-17 18:00 - 20:00, 2025-10-15 18:00 - 20:00, 2025-11-19 18:00 - 20:00, 2025-12-17 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-01-21 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-02-18 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) and 7 more dates | Shanna & Bryan Glazer JCC, 522 N. Howard Ave., Tampa, FL, 33606, United States

2025 U.S.-Japan Sister Cities Summit
2025-09-16 - 2025-09-19 | Izumisano City, Japan, Izumisano, Japan

Sip, Celebrate and Support
2025-11-12 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Shanna and Bryan Glazer JCC, 522 N. Howard Ave., Tampa, FL, 33606, United States
Sip the Future: An Evening with Shira Granot and the Israel Wine Collection
Join Shira Granot, founder of the Israel Wine Collection, for an immersive journey into the heart of Israel’s thriving wine culture. This experience celebrates the country’s pioneering spirit-where ancient winemaking traditions meet modern innovation and sustainability.
Located in one of the most arid regions on Earth, Israel’s vineyards-especially those flourishing in the Negev Desert-are rewriting the narrative of climate adaptation. Through cutting-edge techniques like drip irrigation and climate monitoring, paired with a rediscovery of ancient grape cultivars and traditional farming methods, Israeli winemakers are transforming challenges into opportunities.
Discover how Israel’s wine industry has become a living example of resilience and creativity, offering valuable insights for sustainable agriculture worldwide. This “wine diplomacy” event pairs exquisite tastings with stories that connect people, cultures, and ideas-one glass at a time.
This event is brought to you through a partnership between Connecting Cultures for Peace and the Tampa-Ashdod Sister Cities Committee.
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
$35 Per person
$75 VIP Experience

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Le Havre's Structures: A Taste of Modernism
2025-11-21 17:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Halflants + Pichette, 715 N. Franklin Street, Tampa, 33602, United States
Beaujolais Nouveau & Le Havre’s Structures: A Taste of Modernism

Join Tampa Sister Cities for an evening celebrating French innovation, architecture, and culture through the lens of our sister city, Le Havre, France-a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its post-war modernist design by visionary architect Auguste Perret.
This special event, “Beaujolais Nouveau: Le Havre’s Structures – A Taste of Modernism,” pairs art and architecture with the flavors of France.
📐 Architecture & Insight:Distinguished USF Professor Michael Halflants will lead a captivating lecture exploring Le Havre’s remarkable rebirth after World War II and its unique architectural identity that fuses concrete with creativity. Discover how the city’s modernist vision continues to shape the character and cultural legacy of France’s northern coast.
🍷 Wine & Gastronomy:While we explore Le Havre’s architectural masterpieces, savor Beaujolais Nouveau wines selected by Sommelier Andrée Devove Bearison, each chosen to complement the modern spirit of Le Havre. Accompanying the wines will be a French-inspired tasting menu crafted by Chef Charlotte Walter, offering a culinary experience that celebrates the textures and tones of modern France.
Come raise a glass to friendship, culture, and the beauty of design that transcends borders.
Friday, November 21
5:30 to 8:30p
At Halflants & Pichette Architecture Studio at 715 N Franklin St Tampa

Pastry Chef Charlotte Walter
Gourmet Buffet prepared by Pastry Chef Charlotte Walter who was was trained by Michelin Star Chef Yannick Alleno

Amuse bouche mango, avocado, yuzu and passion fruit
Mini quiche Florentine
Raisin goat cheese, in honey Kataifi nest
Salad mixt and crudity with Burrata, marinated peppers, pesto sauce, olive oil, balsamic glaze
Hummus, eggplant caviar, with different dry crackers herb aromatics, cheese twist stick and bread sticks
Charcuterie and cheese platter
French baguette
Key Lime pie with burned Italian meringue
Mini strawberry tartelette
Verrine orange marmalade and house made chocolate mousse
Verrine fruits minestrone with mint and yuzu sauce

Sommelier Andrée Devove Bearison
Wine selection by Sommelier Andrée Devove Bearison
Two glasses will be served

2025 Beaujolais Nouveau
Beaujolais Nouveau is released on the third Thursday of November each year. For 2025, the release date is Thursday, November 20th. The celebration begins at 12:01 a.m. under French law, marking the end of the harvest season.

2021 Morgon Tradition from Domaine du Petit Pérou
The 2021 Morgon Tradition from Domaine du Petit Pérou is a red wine made from the Gamay grape in the Beaujolais region of France. It is known for being a generous, well-balanced wine with a rich ruby color and a complex bouquet of red fruits like redcurrant and raspberry, as well as notes of blackberry, spices, and hints of chocolate and walnuts
Participation Fee
$55 for members and
$65 for the non members
Please RSVP and purchase your ticket to the event no later than
November 14.

Get Your Tickets Now

Sponsors

Biographies

About Michael Halflants, FAIA
Michael Halflants, FAIA started his architectural education in Brussels at the Institut Supérieur de St Luc. He later earned a master’s at the University of Florida, where he was awarded the gold medal, the college’s highest design honor. Upon graduation, Michael was a project designer with the Polshek Partnership in New York City. In that capacity, he drew designs for theaters and offices in Manhattan and for the Kansas University Spencer Museum. Working in a joint venture with Arata Isozaki’s Tokyo office, he worked on the Brooklyn Museum addition. In 2018, Michael was recognized with the Florida Medal of Honor for Design, the highest honor that the American Institute of Architects can bestow upon an architect in Florida. As full professor at the University of South Florida, he teaches graduate design studios, urban design, tropical design, and the modern housing course. He has lectured on housing and tropical design including in Bogota, Singapore, and Bangkok. He is a native French speaker from Belgium.

About Sommelier Andrée Devove Bearison
Andrée is a French-American wine and spirits business professional with a strong foundation in sales analytics, marketing management, and customer engagement. Her passion for wine stems from her French heritage and her studies in Vineyard and Winery Management in Beaune, where she gained hands-on experience with esteemed Burgundian wineries such as Domaine des Comtes Lafon and Château de Marsannay.

About Chef Charlotte Walter
Born and raised in Paris, Charlotte’s passion for pastry began with her grandfather, a pastry chef who later owned a catering company in the city. He instilled in her a love for the culinary arts and taught her that cooking is a reflection of life-filled with discipline, organization, communication, humanity, and above all, love.
Inspired by his teachings, Charlotte pursued her dream and trained under renowned Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno. Her journey took her through his Parisian brasserie Le Terroir Parisien, the DIOR tea room in Saint-Tropez, and the prestigious three-Michelin-star restaurant Le Pavillon Ledoyen on the Champs-Élysées.
Today, Charlotte continues to share her passion alongside her mother and husband, both chefs themselves. Her grandfather’s legacy lives on not only in her work, but also in her name-Charlotte, a beloved French dessert.

Brewing Connections: A Colombian Coffee Social
2025-12-13 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Cafe at 1920, 1920 E 7th Ave., Tampa, FL, 33605, United States
Beaujolais Nouveau & Le Havre’s Structures: A Taste of Modernism

Tampa Sister Cities and the Tampa-Barranquilla Affiliate Committee invite you to join us for an unforgettable morning of flavor, culture, and networking at Brewing Connections: A Colombian Coffee Social; A fundraising experience that celebrates Tampa Sister Cities’ six decades of collaboration with our sister city, Barranquilla, Colombia.
Immerse yourself in the art and story of Colombian coffee through an exclusive tasting and educational session led by María Amalia Robbin, whose family has had a relationship with coffee for over 200 years. Discover the aromas, notes, and heritage behind every sip you take as María Amalia shares her family’s deep-rooted legacy and passion for one of Colombia’s most treasured exports.
This event isn’t just about coffee – it’s about community and impact. Your participation helps advance Tampa Sister Cities initiatives that foster international exchange, education, and economic cooperation.
Our Why equals Our Passion for…
Cultural Connection & Storytelling
We celebrate the Robbin family’s remarkable 200-year legacy in Colombian coffee cultivation, honoring their enduring contribution to Colombia’s cultural identity. Through storytelling and tasting, we share the traditions that connect people across generations and borders.
Community Engagement
This event is designed to bring people together – fostering connection through education, shared experiences, and cultural appreciation. Each gathering strengthens our community ties and supports the ongoing collaboration between Tampa and Barranquilla.
Education & Support
Proceeds from ticket sales, specialty Colombian coffee purchases, and partner contributions directly benefit Tampa Sister Cities initiatives – advancing educational, cultural, and economic exchange projects between Tampa and Barranquilla.
Together, we celebrate 60 years of friendship and cooperation, one meaningful connection and one perfect cup of coffee at a time.
We’re also inviting local sponsors who wish to align their brand with cultural exchange, education, and international goodwill. Your sponsorship helps keep our community programming vibrant and impactful while showcasing your support for global friendship.
Come sip, learn, and celebrate with us because every cup we share helps strengthen the bonds between Tampa, Barranquilla and our local community.
Saturday, December 13
9:00 am to 11:00 am
At Cafe at 1920, 1920 E. 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605 in Ybor City

María Amalia Robbin, Author of Planting The Seeds

About María Amalia RobbinBorn and raised in Medellín, Colombia, María Amalia Robbin bridges cultures and passions through both coffee and storytelling. With a background in agro-business and over 20 years of experience as an international food broker, she brings a deep understanding of the global food and coffee trade. Inspired by her family’s rich history, she became an author, publishing Planting the Seeds-the first book in her 1888 La Amalia: A Coffee Novel series. At this event, María will share her journey and lead guests through a hands-on coffee cupping experience that connects heritage, flavor, and story in every cup.

Participation Fee
$20 Basic Ticket
$50 Supporter (Free raffle ticket)
$100 Sponsor (Recognition and a small gift)
Please RSVP and purchase your ticket to the event no later than
December 1st.

Get Your Tickets Now

Jun Kaneko: Silence Before Sound
2025-12-17 17:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Tampa Museum of Art, 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL, 33602, United States
Jun Kaneko: Silence Before Sound Opening Celebration

Join us for a special evening with internationally acclaimed artist Jun Kaneko (Japanese-American, born 1942).
Doors open at 5 pm, guests will enjoy delicious heavy hors d’oeuvres from local favorites, along with a complimentary glass of wine and a cash bar.* The Curator’s Chat with artist Jun Kaneko, Ree Kaneko, and Joanna Robotham, Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art, will be held at 6 pm in the Morsani Atrium.
The Tampa Museum of Art is pleased to present Jun Kaneko: Silence Before Sound, first major survey of the artist’s work in Florida. The exhibition celebrates five decades of art-from early drawings created in Japan, to ceramics he made as a member of the influential California Clay Movement in the 1960s, and Kaneko’s groundbreaking projects that blurred the boundaries of painting, ceramics, and sculpture.
Your participation in this celebration directly supports the Silence Before Sound exhibition and the associated educational programs at the Tampa Museum of Art, helping to foster a vibrant art community.
December 17 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Art+ Members Advanced Purchase Tickets | $35
Not-Yet Members & Night of Event | $50
Art+ Patrons receive complimentary admission, parking and an open bar.* RSVP by December 3 by contacting Membership@TampaMuseum.org. *Attendees must be 21+ to consume alcoholic beverages.

Purchase Tickets Here

Annual Dinner - A Traditional Brazilian Dinner at Boteco
2026-01-28 18:00 (America/New_York) | Boteco, 7990 Citrus Park Town Center Mall, Tampa, 33625, United States
Beaujolais Nouveau & Le Havre’s Structures: A Taste of Modernism

Join us for a special evening of connection, culture, and community at Boteco do Manolo – our host for the Tampa-Porto Alegre Sister Cities dinner. This is more than a meal: it’s an opportunity to celebrate our cities’ shared spirit over food, conversation, and camaraderie.
📍 Venue
Boteco do Manolo – located inside Citrus Park Town Center, at 7990 Citrus Park Town Center Blvd, Tampa, FL 33625
Founded in Rio de Janeiro and now bringing authentic Brazilian cuisine to Tampa, the restaurant combines warm, convivial atmosphere with bold flavors and generous portions.
🎉 What to Expect

A curated dinner featuring the rich flavors of Brazilian cuisine – from savory appetizers and grilled meats to seafood, pasta, and traditional dishes.
Signature drinks and beverages to toast Sister Cities friendship (and maybe try the house specialties).
A vibrant, welcoming setting – perfect for mingling, reconnecting, and forging new connections between the Tampa and Porto Alegre communities. The restaurant’s atmosphere blends casual comfort with festive energy.

5:45 pm to 8:00 pm
At Boteco do Manolo, 7990 Citrus Park Town Center Blvd, Tampa, FL 33625
Tickets

Member Ticket: $55
Guest Ticket: $65

Purchase your tickets by January 22nd.

Purchase Tickets Today

A Sunday at the Races: A French Equine Experience
2026-03-08 11:00 (America/New_York) | Tampa Bay Dowms, 11225 Race Track Rd, Tampa, FL, 33626, United States
Beaujolais Nouveau & Le Havre’s Structures: A Taste of Modernism

Sunday, March 8 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PMVIP Box – Tampa Bay Downs
Join Tampa Sister Cities for an unforgettable afternoon where international culture meets the thrill of the track. A Sunday at the Races is an exclusive French equine experience hosted in a private VIP box at Tampa Bay Downs, featuring live racing, refined conversation, and rare insights from one of France’s most respected horse trainers.
This special event celebrates the deep cultural connection between Tampa and France while offering guests a front-row seat to the elegance, strategy, and excitement of thoroughbred racing.

Meet Our Special Guest: Arnaud Delacour
Arnaud Delacour is an internationally respected Thoroughbred trainer whose career bridges the finest traditions of French horsemanship and elite American racing.
Based at the Fair Hill Training Center in Maryland, Delacour has built a reputation as a thoughtful and strategic conditioner of top-level racehorses. His standout success includes A.P. Indian, a multiple Grade 1-winning sprinter, and the French import Chez Pierre, who delivered a memorable upset victory in the Grade 1 Maker’s Mark Mile at Keeneland in 2023, defeating Breeders’ Cup champion Modern Games.
A native of Normandy, France, Delacour began his career under legendary French trainer Alain de Royer-Dupré before moving to the United States, where he spent seven years as an assistant to Christophe Clément. His work reflects the precision, patience, and deep respect for the horse that define French training philosophy.
Arnaud works closely with his wife, Leigh Delacour, an accomplished trainer in her own right. Leigh holds a trainer’s license and previously spent nearly a decade working with renowned trainer Graham Motion, making their operation a true partnership built on experience, insight, and shared passion for the sport.
At A Sunday at the Races, guests will have the rare opportunity to hear directly from Arnaud as he shares his journey, his approach to training, and his perspective on the global world of Thoroughbred racing.

What to Expect

🐎 Live Thoroughbred Racing at Tampa Bay Downs
🏟 Private VIP Box Access with premium views of the track
🇫🇷 French Cultural Spotlight on equine tradition and training
🎤 Exclusive Talk & Q&A with Arnaud Delacour
🥂 Food & Refreshments in a relaxed, social setting
🤝 Networking & Community with fellow Tampa Sister Cities supporters

This event is designed to be social, educational, and memorable-perfect for members, guests, and anyone with an interest in culture, sports, or international exchange.

Why It Matters
Events like A Sunday at the Races are more than just an afternoon out-they support Tampa Sister Cities’ mission of fostering global understanding, cultural exchange, and international relationships that strengthen our community.
Your participation helps sustain programs, exchanges, and partnerships that connect Tampa to the world.

Reserve Your Spot
Space is limited for this exclusive VIP experience.
We look forward to welcoming you trackside for an afternoon of culture, conversation, and competition-à la française.

Member Price $75
Guest Price $80

Purchase Tickets Today

2026 River O'Green Festival
2026-03-14 10:00 - 18:00 UTC | Curtis Hixon Park, 600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL, 33602, United States
Join Us at the River O’Green Festival
The Tampa-South Dublin Sister Cities Committee
invites you to the River O’Green Festival
at
Curtis Hixon Park 🍀 600 N Ashley Dr. 🍀 Tampa
11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday, March 14, 2026
Join us for an Irish celebration
Free to the Public
River O’ Green
River O’ Green, presented by Grow Financial, is set to return to Tampa’s Downtown on March 14th from 11am – 6pm! River O’ Green is an annual, free event to kick off the St. Patrick’s Day holiday, as the Hillsborough River is transformed into a bright shade of green. This day of festive fun at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park will feature live music, kids activities, food trucks, and of course, beer.

Volunteers Needed
I hope this message finds you well and ready for some fun and camaraderie! As you may know, the River O’Green Festival is happening this Saturday, and we are thrilled to announce that Tampa Sister Cities will have a tent at the event! This is a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase the spirit of international friendship and community that lies at the heart of our organization.
However, to make our presence as impactful as possible, we need your help. We are looking for volunteers to help manage our tent throughout the festival, which runs from 11 AM to 6 PM. Whether you’re an experienced volunteer or looking to lend a hand for the first time, we would love to have you join us!
We understand that everyone has busy schedules, so we are looking for volunteers to fill in as many 1-hour gaps as possible. This flexible approach allows you to enjoy the festival and contribute at a time that is most convenient for you. If you are interested in volunteering, please complete the form below to select your preferred hour(s). Your time and enthusiasm will greatly contribute to the success of our tent and the festival as a whole.
This is a wonderful opportunity to engage with the community, meet new people, and enjoy the festivities. Plus, volunteering with Tampa Sister Cities is always a fun and rewarding experience. Don’t miss out on being part of something special this weekend!
Thank you for considering this opportunity to volunteer and support Tampa Sister Cities. If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Let’s make the River O’Green Festival a memorable event for our community and visitors alike!

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7am Setup

11AM – 12PM

12PM – 1PM

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3PM – 4PM

4PM – 5PM

5PM – 6PM (Breakdown)

A Turkish Dinner
2026-03-25 18:00 (America/New_York) | Bayshore Mediterranean Grill, 6102 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa, 33611
Beaujolais Nouveau & Le Havre’s Structures: A Taste of Modernism

Join Tampa Sister Cities for a delightful evening of culture, cuisine, and connection at our upcoming Turkish Dinner Night!
📅 Date: March 25🕕 Time: 6:00 PM📍 Location: Bayshore Mediterranean Grill
Experience the rich flavors and warm hospitality of Turkey right here in Tampa. Guests will enjoy an authentic Turkish dinner featuring traditional dishes, fresh ingredients, and time-honored recipes that celebrate Turkey’s vibrant culinary heritage.
This special evening is a wonderful opportunity to:

Connect with fellow Tampa Sister Cities supporters
Celebrate international friendship and cultural exchange
Learn more about Turkey’s traditions and community ties

Whether you’re a longtime member or new to Tampa Sister Cities, we welcome you to share in this flavorful cultural experience.
Seats are limited, so reserve your spot today. We look forward to seeing you there!
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
At Bayshore Mediterranean Grill, 6102 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33611
Tickets

Member Ticket: $45
Guest Ticket: $55

Purchase your tickets by March 15th.

Purchase Tickets Today

Women of Resistance
2026-03-26 20:00 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | New Tampa Performing Arts Center, 8550 Hunters Village Rd, Tampa, FL, 33647, United States
Beaujolais Nouveau & Le Havre’s Structures: A Taste of Modernism

Experience the stories of WWII Heroines brought to life on stage through art, dance, and music! Women of Resistance (WOR) tells the amazing, little known, stories of seven heroic women who helped the Allies defeat Fascism during WWII. Their roles were diverse, ranging from radio operators and spies, to guerilla fighters and more. Some were leaders in the entertainment industry, and others hairdressers. These are stories that inspire and empower.
Time & Location
Mar 26, 2026, 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM
New Tampa Performing Arts Center, 8550 Hunters Village Rd, Tampa, FL 33647, USA
Price
Tickets start at $30.
TSC MEMBERS CAN USE COUPON CODE “WOR5SCA” TO SAVE $5.

Purchase Tickets Today

2026 Brazilian Festival
2026-04-04 14:00 - 23:00 UTC | Cinco Soccer, 5305 E Henry Ave, Tampa, 33610, United States
Join Us at the Brazilian Festival

The Tampa-Porto Alegre Sister Cities Committee
invites you to the Brazilian Festival
at
Cinco Soccer Fields
5305 E Henry Ave, Tampa, FL 33610, USA
2:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Saturday, April 4, 2026
Join us for a celebration of Brazilian Culture
The Brazilian Festival
Tampa Sister Cities invites our members and guests to join us at the 16th Annual Brazilian Festival, one of Tampa Bay’s most vibrant cultural celebrations. This exciting event brings together the music, dance, cuisine, and traditions of Brazil for a day filled with unforgettable experiences.
Enjoy live samba and bossa nova performances, savor authentic Brazilian food, explore artisan vendors, and participate in interactive cultural activities for all ages. Families are welcome, with a dedicated kids’ area and entertainment throughout the day.
As the evening arrives, the festival comes alive with high-energy performances by Brazilian artists, celebrating the culture and spirit that connects our global community.
Join Tampa Sister Cities at the Festival
Celebrate international friendship, culture, and community with fellow Tampa Sister Cities members and friends at this exciting annual event.
General Admission – $25
VIP – $59
Kids Under the Age of 12 – Free Admission

Purchase Tickets

Volunteers Needed
hope this message finds you well and ready to celebrate culture and community! The Annual Brazilian Festival is coming to Tampa, and Tampa Sister Cities will be participating. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to share the mission of our organization and connect with the community while celebrating Brazilian culture.
To make our presence successful, we need your help. We are looking for volunteers to assist at the Tampa Sister Cities table during the festival. Volunteers will help welcome visitors, share information about Tampa Sister Cities, and represent the spirit of international friendship that defines our organization.
The festival runs throughout the day, and we are asking volunteers to help cover short shifts so everyone can still enjoy the festival.
Even one hour of your time would make a big difference.
If you are available to volunteer, please sign up using the form below and select the time that works best for you.
👉 Sign up to volunteer👉 Help represent Tampa Sister Cities👉 Be part of this exciting cultural celebration
Volunteering at events like this is a great way to meet fellow members, engage with the community, and support Tampa’s international connections.
Thank you for helping us make the Brazilian Festival a great experience for Tampa Sister Cities and the community. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.
We look forward to seeing you there! 🇧🇷🌎

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7am Setup [Filled]

11AM – 12PM [Filled]

12PM – 1PM [Filled]

1PM – 2PM [Filled]

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3PM – 4PM [Filled]

4PM – 5PM [Filled]

5PM – 6PM (Breakdown)

2026 Italian Heritage Celebration
2026-04-12 13:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Sons and Daughters of Italy Lodge, 3315 W. Lemon St., Tampa, FL, 33609, United States
COME CELEBRATE OUR ROOTS

with the Italian Community of Tampa Bay
April 12, 2026 | 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
In celebration of Agrigento’s as the Cultural Capital of Italy, and in honor of the enduring sister city relationship between Agrigento and Tampa, we invite you to join us in commemorating the rich heritage and deep connections between the Italian community in the Tampa Bay area and the people of Agrigento.
The event will feature traditional Italian cuisine from local restaurants, vibrant folkloric dances and music, demonstrations of wine and olive oil production, and much more!
Purchase your discounted tickets today!
*Starting on March 25th, 2026 the base ticket price increases to $40
Children up to 10 years of age are Free

Purchase Your Tickets

CELEBRATING AGRIGENTO
CULTURAL CAPITAL OF ITALY for 2025
The beautiful Sicilian city of Agrigento, one of Tampa’s 11 Sister Cities, has been awarded the title of Italian Capital of Culture for the year 2025. Special events and celebrations, together with enhanced tourist attractions, will highlight the city’s historic values and natural beauty. As many Tampa natives and longtime residents trace their roots in the Agrigento province, we are honored to join in the festivities and showcase the rich array of activities that the year-long program will offer
CELEBRATING ANCESTRAL TOWNS
FRIENDSHIP CITY AFFILIATION
Approximately 90% of Tampa’s Italian American community traces its ancestry to towns in the Province of Agrigento, like Bivona, Cianciana, Alessandria della Rocca, and Santo Stefano Quisquina. In order to preserve the special friendship that unites the Tampa Bay area with these towns, a new agreement is about to be signed to formalize relations between Tampa and our ancestral Sicilian towns. The official affiliation agreement will be formally signed in Tampa during this event. The aim is to foment tourism, educational and cultural exchange programs, and trade

AUGMENTED REALITY
TRAVEL BACK IN TIME
Thanks to the extraordinary work of faculty and students of the USF Institute of Digital Exploration, time travel is never been closer. Employing cutting-edge technology, IDEx teams have spent countless hours 3D mapping monuments, objects, and archaeological sites to let “digital explorers” experience a full immersion in our history. Don’t miss this opportunity to visit the past, listen to scholars sharing stories about their findings, and watch ancient jewelry and everyday objects being 3D-printed back to life under your very eyes!
TASTE OF ITALY
IN FOOD WE TRUST
The Italian heritage we all know and love is the taste of timeless Italian culinary specialties! Several renowned local restaurants will bring their most cherished dishes to delight us with their cuisine. Delicious samplings of Italian antipasto items and sips of wine, also available for purchase through donations to the Sons of Italy Lodge, will be offered in our tasting areas

TRADITIONAL DANCE PERFORMANCES
Sicily is a magical place, rich in history and filled with colors, fragrances, silences, and sounds. Travel with us into the sound of this region with traditional Sicilian dances to be performed by the students of ON THE EDGE @FRANKREYDANCE STUDIO
MILLENARY WELLNESS: OLIVE OIL
Olive oil has been around at least since 4000 BC, and it is considered a staple ingredient of the Mediterranean diet. Learn with us how pure Extra Virgin Olive Oil is made in Italy to this day, and taste its flavors.

IN VINO VERITAS
WINE TRADITIONS
How is sweet or dry wine made? Why does it turn into vinegar if not carefully produced? PARDO WINE GRAPES will display and share wine-making tools and methods and the folk science behind its thousand-year old history
LANDSCAPES AND FLAVORS
A MAGICAL TRIP
Distinguished USF Professor Santo V. Nicosia, author of “Travels and Food for Body and Soul” will join us to sign his book and tell us about his long journeys throughout Southern Italy and his explorations of the Mediterranean diet

ITALIAN STUDIES AND ENVIRONMENTAL HUMANITIES
Italian Studies at USF, singlehandedly founded by Prof. LaTrecchia in 2004, allows students to gain proficiency in Italian language and acquire a thorough knowledge of Italian cultural history in a transnational perspective. The courses provide a multidisciplinary approach to the study of food culture as well as environmental issues. The program prepares students to become receptive to the global concerns of our society increasing their capabilities in writing, speaking, intercultural literacy, and effective citizenship, all skills that are useful in a variety of professions.

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Tampa Sister Cities 5k Run/Walk
2026-04-26 08:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Gadsen Park

60th Anniversary Trip to Barranquilla, Colombia
2026-05-09 08:00 - 2026-05-13 17:00 (America/New_York) | FL

2026 Trip to Agrigento
2026-06-08 08:00 - 2026-06-19 17:00 (America/New_York) | FL
