WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 18, 2025) — The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) will commemorate its 50th Anniversary with a landmark Gala celebration on Saturday, October 18, 2025, marking its return to the historic Washington Hilton Hotel at 1919 Connecticut Avenue, NW, where the organization has hosted many of its most memorable celebrations.

This black-tie event will honor distinguished Italian and Italian American leaders while celebrating half a century of NIAF’s commitment to preserving and promoting the Italian heritage. Among the distinguished honorees, maestro Andrea Bocelli will receive the NIAF Lifetime Achievement Award in Entertainment, with additional honorees to be announced in the coming months.

In keeping with tradition, invitations have been extended to President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, underscoring the gala’s significance in strengthening U.S.-Italian relations.

The 2025 Gala will spotlight the Italian region of Lazio as the Region of Honor, bringing the distinctive culture, cuisine, and traditions of Rome’s home region to the nation’s capital. The gala evening will begin with a cocktail reception, followed by a dinner featuring Lazio’s regional specialties paired with premium Italian wines.  Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy special surprise performances, participate in silent and live auctions, and dance the night away at the After Hours Party.

NIAF has extended invitations to the renowned Band of the Carabinieri, Italy’s prestigious military music ensemble, and to the esteemed pilots of the Frecce Tricolori, Italy’s world-famous aerobatic demonstration team, to join in this historic celebration. Their participation would add a special element of Italian excellence and national pride to the evening.

Earlier in the day, NIAF will host the NIAF Forum at the hotel, featuring a series of engaging lectures and talks that explore Italian and Italian American culture, heritage, and achievement. The Forum will also showcase screenings of the five NIAF/De Laurentiis Film Prize finalists, with the winner to be announced during the Gala dinner, highlighting NIAF’s commitment to supporting emerging filmmakers.

“Our Golden Anniversary Gala marks a pivotal moment in NIAF’s history,” said NIAF President Robert Allegrini. “For fifty years, we have served as a bridge between Italy and the United States, and this celebration will honor that legacy while looking forward to our next half-century of service to the Italian American community.”

A portion of the proceeds will support NIAF’s educational and cultural programs, ensuring the foundation’s continued impact for future generations.

For sponsorship opportunities, tickets, or additional information about the NIAF 50th Anniversary Gala, visit NIAF.org.

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CONTACT:
NIAF:
Gabriella Mileti
Director of Special Programs and PR
202-939-3116
gmileti@niaf.org

Barabino and Partners USA:
Marco Lastrico
Partner – CEO
212-308-8710
m.lastrico@barabinousa.com

About NIAF
The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a non-profit organization based in the United States that promotes the Italian culture and heritage. Founded in 1975, NIAF has been a leading advocate for Italian Americans, preserving their legacy and promoting their contributions to the United States.