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
Italy-US Relations: Standing the Test of Time
Hon. Mike Pompeo
Former Secretary of State of the United States
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Hon. Angelino Alfano
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy
Moderated By
Maria Bartiromo
Anchor, financial journalist, and author whose three-decade career on business television helped shape how Wall Street gets covered on air.
An exclusive conversation exploring the enduring diplomatic bonds between Italy and the United States, the shared values that unite our two nations, and the road ahead for one of the world's most important bilateral relationships.
8:30 AM – 10:00 AM · Jefferson West, Concourse Level
Medical Conference
Italian and American Excellence Shaping the Future of Medicine
An Italian American Scientific Forum Presented by SHRO and NIAF
A specialized medical conference on Italian medical excellence and American innovation presented by NIAF board member Dr. Antonio Giordano and the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center.
Free & Open to the Public
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM · Jefferson East, Concourse Level
Film Screening
The Italian Factor
A Film by Eduardo Montes-Bradley
A special documentary screening exploring the remarkable influence of the Piccirilli brothers on America's most iconic monuments.
Free & Open to the Public
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM · Jefferson East, Concourse Level
Lecture
Lecture on Constantino Brumidi
An illuminating look at Rome's influence on our nation's capital and the life and legacy of Constantino Brumidi, the Italian immigrant artist whose frescoes adorn the U.S. Capitol dome.
Free & Open to the Public
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM · Jefferson West, Concourse Level
Awards
The 4th Annual Italpress Awards
Celebrating excellence in Italian American media and communications at the third annual Italpress Awards ceremony.
Free & Open to the Public
2:15 PM – 3:15 PM · Jefferson East, Concourse Level
Book Launch & Discussion
From Liberty to Legacy: 250 Years of Italy-US Relations
The European House Ambrosetti / NIAF Book Launch
A high-level discussion on the NIAF-Ambrosetti White Paper on 250 years of Italy-US relations, presented in partnership with The European House – Ambrosetti (TEHA Group).
Free & Open to the Public
3:15 PM – 3:30 PM · Jefferson East, Concourse Level
Launch Event
La Stampa USA Launch
The launch of La Stampa USA, a new English-language digital platform dedicated to telling Italy's story to American audiences.
Free & Open to the Public
NY Gala 2026 Recap
Relive our 50th Gala
