Event Details

About the Gala

Date & Venue
Saturday, October 17, 2026
Washington Hilton
1919 Connecticut Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C.
Evening Schedule
5:30 PM
Campari Aperitivo
7:00 PM
Dinner & Awards Program
10:00 PM
After Party
Attire Black-Tie & Decorations  ·  Military Dress Uniform

You are cordially invited to join us for NIAF's 51st Anniversary Gala in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, October 17, 2026 at the historic Washington Hilton. On this evening, we will honor distinguished Italian and Italian American leaders who have made extraordinary contributions to our community and nation, while commemorating more than 50 years of NIAF's dedication to preserving and promoting our cherished heritage.

Join us for an unforgettable elegant evening featuring a special performance by Sebastian Maniscalco, distinguished guests from both sides of the Atlantic, and a dinner inspired by NIAF's 2026 Region of Honor, Lombardia. A portion of the proceeds from this milestone celebration will support NIAF's vital educational and cultural programs for generations to come.

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Watch Last Year's Gala Recap
2026 Region of Honor

Celebrate Lombardia With Us

Each year, NIAF partners with one of Italy's 20 regions to showcase its history, landmarks, natural resources, artisans, industries, cuisine, and culture — promoting tourism, economic development, and highlighting the region's businesses and entrepreneurs on the international stage. NIAF is proud to celebrate the 2026 Region of Honor: Lombardia.

Learn More About Lombardia →
2026 Gala

Honorees

Sebastian Maniscalco


Sebastian Maniscalco
Comedian & Actor
NIAF Dea Roma Special Achievement Award in Entertainment

View Bio →
Photo credit: Peggy Sirota
Pierroberto Folgiero


Pierroberto Folgiero
Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of the Fincantieri Group
NIAF Dea Roma Special Achievement Award for Outstanding Leadership in Maritime Industry
View Bio →
Pamela Wright


Pamela Wright
46th President General of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution 2022-2025

Daughters of the American Revolution
NIAF Dea Roma Special Achievement Award in Civic Leadership
View Bio →

Additional honorees to be announced.

Why Your Support Matters

Funds at Work

Gala Weekend

Saturday Program

The NIAF Gala Weekend extends well beyond the evening celebration. On Saturday, October 17, 2026, NIAF hosts a full day of programming at the Washington Hilton open to the public — bringing together cultural events, distinguished speakers, and thought-provoking discussions that reflect the depth and breadth of the Italian American story. All Saturday events are free and open to the public, with the exception of the Victoria J. Mastrobuono Education Luncheon, which requires a separate ticket.

Featured Event
The Victoria J. Mastrobuono Education Luncheon
Hon. Mike Pompeo
Former Secretary of State of the United States
·
Hon. Angelino Alfano
Former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Italy

Join us for an exclusive luncheon featuring a distinguished conversation between two former senior government officials from the United States and Italy, exploring the enduring diplomatic relationship between our two nations and the shared values that continue to unite us.

$125 per person Reserve Your Seat
Medical Conference
SHRO Medical Conference
A specialized medical conference presented by NIAF board member Dr. Antonio Giordano and the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center.
Free & Open to the Public
Film Screening
Screening: The Italian Factor Documentary
A special documentary screening exploring the remarkable influence of Italian culture, innovation, and heritage on the American story.
Free & Open to the Public
Awards
3rd Annual Italpress Awards
Celebrating excellence in Italian American media and communications at the third annual Italpress Awards ceremony.
Free & Open to the Public
Lecture
Lecture on Constantino Brumidi
An illuminating presentation on the life and legacy of Constantino Brumidi — the Italian immigrant artist known as the "Michelangelo of the U.S. Capitol" — whose frescoes adorn the dome of the United States Capitol to this day.
Free & Open to the Public
Panel Discussion
The European House – Ambrosetti
A high-level discussion on the NIAF-Ambrosetti White Paper on U.S.-Italy relations, presented in partnership with The European House – Ambrosetti (TEHA Group). Speaker to be announced.
Free & Open to the Public
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