Roma Eterna: All Roads Lead to Rome
For centuries, Rome has stood as the beating heart of Italy—a timeless center of culture, faith, art, and tradition. Known as La Città Eterna (The Eternal City), Rome has shaped generations through its enduring influence, where every road truly leads back to its rich history and vibrant spirit.
In that same spirit, Saint John the Baptist Church has long served as the Italian cultural hub of Central Ohio—a place where community, heritage, and faith come together year after year. As we celebrate the 2026 Columbus Italian Festival, we invite you to experience Roma Eterna right here in Columbus—where tradition meets community, and all roads lead us back to what matters most: family, culture, and connection.
This year, all Roads lead to Rome, and Columbus!
2026 Festival Hours
Friday, October 9 | 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Saturday, October 10 | 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday, October 11 | 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Sunday’s Catholic Mass is Celebrated under the Main Tent on the Carfagna’s Traditional Stage at 10:15 AM
Columbus Italian Festival Parade and High School Marching Band Competition
Sunday, October 11th – 1:00 PM
The parade steps off at 1:00 PM from Goodale Park, traveling down High Street to Warren Street before making its way into the Columbus Italian Festival grounds.
Fri, Oct 9 • 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Vegan
Pizza
Italian
Asian
New American
Tex-Mex