About this Event
Open Bar, Italian Holiday Menu, European Ballroom Dancing, Italian Holiday Opera, Late Night DJ Dancing, Chocolates from throughout Europe, Carolers, and Hundreds of Holiday Revelers - including SANTA CLAUS!
- Christmas and Chanukah in Rome
- The Majesty of the Coliseum
- The Beauty of the Trevi Fountain
Want to travel to Italy for the holidays? Ready to toast in the season in the backyard of Europe? Celebrate the holidays with us in one of the most exciting venues in our area;
- Italian wines, Italian Food and Desserts, European Dance Demos, Lessons and More!
- Help contribute to the toy drive with Toys for Tots by bringing an unwrapped toy with you.
Don your best outfits and be transported to one of the most beautiful and admired countries in all of Europe as we bring together the glory of Caesar’s Roman Empire with the allure of Modern Western Europe. From the music of European master composers to a late-night modern DJ playing your favorite hits, this Italian Holiday Ball has something for everyone. Also, be on the lookout for Babbo Natale (Santa Claus)
This event is perfect for both couples and singles alike and we expect a sellout audience of young professionals to this grand event.
Your magical evening features:
1) SPECIAL CAROLERS GREETING:
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by Holiday carolers singing Christmas, Chanukah and Seasonal Favorites to get you into the spirit (both in English and Italian).
2) BALLROOM DANCING with LESSONS
Travel to the center of the Emperor’s Palace as you waltz, Fox Trot, Tango and even Swing in an 18th-century ballroom setting. Ballroom dance lessons will be provided as an introductory refresher.
3) HOLIDAY OPERA PRESENTATION
As if we were evoking the celebratory spirit of St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican, we will be privy to a special performance of classical opera pieces celebrating the holiday season!
4) LIVE HOLIDAY JAZZ BAND
One of the most beloved BIG BAND/MARDI GRAS STYLE BANDS ("Crush Funk") joins us to celebrate the holiday season with an incredible show! Clap and dance along to the Holiday Hits, Italian hits, and Big Band Jazz Favorites
5) EUROPEAN NIGHTCLUB:
In the second half of the evening, we visit the hottest nightclubs emulating the hot spots of Via Del Corse as one our area’s top DJs spins the best retro, swing and top 40 dance hits.
6) EUROPEAN BAR
Tonight, we will present an OPEN BAR of European wines, beers, and other nonalcoholic refreshments. Wines and beers from several different countries, including the vineyards of Italy, will be on hand for you to sample and enjoy!
7) DOLCI (Desserts). As if picked from the best pastry shops in all of Italy, our dessert selection offers you a wide variety of assortment de holiday Italian treats Experience the exquisite Italian desserts found in some of the finest restaurants, cafes and casinos in all of Italy
8) CHARITY TOY DRIVE with TOYS FOR TOTS:
Help TTD spread joy to children this year. A marine representative from Toys for Tots will be on hand for collection. Please bring a new, unwrapped toy.
9) PLUS - A VISIT BY BABBO NATALE, otherwise known as SANTA CLAUS: Santa will come to take pictures and to tell you about how HE is celebrated in Italy!
Note: This is primarily a stand up, buffet style reception with limited seating throughout the evening. We will have limited tables and chairs, but will not be able to accommodate seating for all attendees at one time. If you have any special needs, please email [email protected] in advance.
VIP OPTION: For a little extra royalty this evening, you will get:
- Early Admission to the Gala (7:00 PM);
- Private Champagne Reception;
- Special Early Italian Holiday Dinner Menu (TBA)
VIP MENU:
Roman Antipasti
[Coccoli with Stracchino and prosciutto crudo, Breassola, Mortadella, Capocolla,Italian Formaggi
Pickled vegetables-Variety of Olives stuffed mini peppers]
Suppli
[Ball rice Risotto]
Porchetta
[Pork roast stuffed with mushroom & fennel]
Coda alla Vacciana
[Traditional Roman Stw with braised vegetables]
Cacio Peppe
[spaghetti with pecorino Romana & black pepper]
Saltimbocca Chicken
Carbonara Rigatoni
Lamb alla Cacciatori
[roasted lamb with chili flakes and anchovies & fresh Tomato Romano served with gnocchi]
Fritto Misto Vegetables[Fried Vegetables]
Focaccia con la Robiola e Olio Tartufato
(Robiola cheese focaccia with truffle olive oil)
NOTE: Please be advised that this event is NOT directly organized by the Embassy of Italy. Any concern or information request on the event MUST be addressed through our organization directly. Please do not contact the embassy with any specific questions.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Embassy of Italy, 3000 Whitehaven Street Northwest, Washington, United States
USD 73.71 to USD 157.71
