La Dolce Vita on Campus: Italian Heritage Day

The best of Italy’s food, drinks, and entertainment come to play on Italian Heritage Day presented by Parmigiano Reggiano.

If a sun-soaked Mediterranean escape has been on your mind, consider this your invitation, no passport required. For one day only, the Miami Open presented by Itaú brings the spirit of Italy to campus with Italian Heritage Day. Indulge in authentic Italian flavors, soak in the sounds of Italy throughout the grounds, and don’t miss the traditional Parmigiano Reggiano Wheel Cracking Ceremony later this afternoon.

Food

Pride and passion run deep in Italian cuisine, and there’s no shortage of ways to savor it across campus today. Begin at Parmigiano Reggiano Taste & Play with a scoop of limited-edition‑ Parmigiano Reggiano ice cream, head to Piadina 305’s pop-up for an authentic Rimini-style flatbread, then grab some antipasti from Spri’s food truck.

There’s no shortage of pizza options, so make sure to hit Spri’s, Miami Slice, and That’s Amore Pizza — the only challenge is deciding which is best!

To complete your Italian stay‑cation, stop by The Grove for the La Dolce Fizz signature cocktail. Light, effervescent, and beautifully balanced, it’s crafted with Italian elegance in every sip.

Music

While we may not be able to transport the landscapes of Italy to Miami, we sure can bring the sounds. A mandolinist and trumpeter welcome guests at the main gates at the start of the day and return to send them off as the celebration winds down in the afternoon.

Later in the day at Sunset Terrace, close your eyes and let our featured crooner sweep you away with the timeless charm of classic Italian songs, bringing a touch of old-world romance to the Miami Open.

Between performances, American Social keeps the energy going with a live DJ from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m, providing the perfect backdrop for sipping, cheering, and celebrating all day long.

Can’t-Miss Moments

If you’ve been meaning to visit the Campus Store, today’s the day. Celebrate Italian Heritage Day in style with a limited-edition‑ Miami Open silk scarf, available exclusively in the retail store.

Just steps away at The Fountains, Parmigiano Reggiano will host a giveaway at 3 p.m., while Parmigiano Reggiano Taste & Play at Palm Court serves as the heart of the celebration. Stop by around 12:30 p.m. for a meet and greet ‑photo opportunity with Chef Bernardo Palladini of Torno Subito Miami, followed by a Parmigiano Reggiano ice cream and balsamic tasting.

At 5:30 p.m., the Official Wheel Cracking Ceremony begins. Here, a skilled worker uses specialized knives to carefully split a massive wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano in half without damaging the structure inside. It is a centuries-old tradition that celebrates the authenticity and craftsmanship of Parmigiano Reggiano, bringing people together to experience the aroma and flavor of the freshly opened cheese. A guest Italian ATP player will take part in the ceremony, making this a moment that’s as unforgettable as it is delicious!

Italian Heritage Day Activities

• Cocktail Spotlight: La Dolce Fizz | The Grove | All day
• Food Spotlight: Parmigiano Reggiano Taste & Play, Piadina 305, Spri’s | All day
• Limited edition silk scarf | Miami Open Store | All day
• American Social DJ | American Social | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• Mandolinist & Trumpeter | Gates | 11 a.m. – noon & 5 – 6 p.m.
• Parmigiano Reggiano Player Meet & Greet | Parmigiano Reggiano Taste & Play | 12:30 p.m.
• Parmigiano Reggiano Fountain Giveaway | The Fountains | 3 p.m.
• Crooner | Sunset Terrace | 5 – 6 p.m.
• Parmigiano Reggiano Wheel Cracking | Parmigiano Reggiano Taste & Play | 5:30 p.m.