Mareeba Salami & Sausage Festa
When
Where
Cost
The Mareeba Salami Festa is back for another unforgettable edition of the Cairns Italian Festival! Proudly celebrating the art of Italian salami and cured meats, this beloved festival event is all about tradition, craftsmanship, and community, and this year it promises to be bigger, tastier, and more fun than ever.
The Competition: Who Will Take the Crown?
Some of Australia’s finest artisan salami makers will compete for the prestigious title, and the winner will be judged at La Festa and announced right at the start of the day! Guests will have the unique opportunity to sample some of the participating products, discovering the flavours, textures, and aromas that make each creation special.
Meet the Hosts and Entertainment
The morning will be hosted by MC James Liotta, a celebrated personality known for his engaging presence, infectious energy, and deep connection to the Italian community. Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Romano Bros. will perform live, bringing authentic Sicilian and Italian music to the stage and keeping the crowd entertained.
Following the announcements, Luigi Borgo will lead a Q&A panel, sharing insights, stories, and tips on salami making, curing techniques, and Italian food traditions. This is a rare opportunity to hear from one of the leading experts in the field and learn more about the craft behind these delicious creations.
A Day of Fun, Flavour, and Community
The Mareeba Salami Festa isn’t just a competition — it’s a celebration of Italian heritage, flavours, and friendship. Sample, taste, and enjoy the best artisan salami while soaking up the festival atmosphere, connecting with friends and family, and celebrating the Italian tradition of sharing good food with great company.
Mayor Event Sponsor:
Briscola Tournament – Starts at 3 PM!
Are you a Briscola master or want to try your hand at Italy’s favorite card game? Gather your friends and join the action as the competition heats up in an exciting Briscola tournament!
First Place: HairPop Gold lava bracelet
Second Place: HairPop Silver lava bracelet
Prizes sponsored by:
Menu
TBA
- Adults: $76
- Children (4-14yr): $45
- To book for children under 4 year old, please contact us at: enquiries@cairnsitalianfestival.com.au
- *Prices don’t include booking fees
Stay tuned, more info coming soon!
Inclusions:
Enter the competition
Think your salami or sausage is the best? Enter now and put your skills to the test!
Up to $2,000 in prizes! Visit our website to enter.
Entries will be judged on Taste, Aroma, Density, and Colour by our expert panel:
(TBC)
Book your spot now and get ready to celebrate Italian tradition in style!
James Liotta — MC
Award winning Italian/Australian entertainer and personality James Liotta, has been working as a performer and comedian for over two decades and is regularly seen alongside friends and colleagues including icons such as: Joe Avati, George Kapiniaris, Thair and Effie! He has also opened twice for Italian superstars Ricchi E Poveri as well as Pupo and Umberto Tozzi within Australia. James has appeared on TV in various commercials and roles including: Fat Pizza, Housos, Darradong Local Council, Thank God You’re Here, Upper Middle Bogan, Utopia, Underbelly, Neighbours and many more as well as showcasing his stand up comedy talents on Australia’s Got Talent where he received 4 yes votes.
He is one of the busiest MC’s for various events and festivals including almost every major Italian festival across Australia. On radio he is regularly heard on Melbourne’s number one radio station 3AW as well as presenting his own shows on Italian national radio RETE ITALIA and on community Melbourne radio INNER FM.
James Liotta is a winner of the Victorian Multicultural Arts Awards by the State Government of Victoria for excellence in Arts, a winner of Best Actor of the year with Star Central magazine as well as a finalist for best comedy act of 2025 at the Australian Club Entertainment awards.
Romano Brothers
Adding a distinctive sound to the Cairns Italian Festival, Romano Bros. bring the vibrant spirit of Sicily to life through music. Born from a creative partnership between brothers Angelo and Marco Romano, this Sicilian pop‑rock band blends influences from pop, rock, funk, jazz, Latin rhythms and Mediterranean sounds to create a lively and memorable performance.
Since forming in 1999, Romano Bros. have built a strong reputation through their dynamic live shows and original music, producing songs that reflect their heritage and musical journey — from early performances across Sicily to national recognition and recording projects that capture their eclectic style and rich cultural roots.
Their music honors Sicilian tradition with contemporary energy, making them a perfect fit for our festival stage. Expect an engaging mix of rhythms, passionate vocals, and the infectious joy of Italian music that will have the crowd moving and celebrating together.
The Mammas
Everyone loves the Italian Mammas! These fiery, pasta-loving queens of comedy bring a touch of Mediterranean flair everywhere they go. From hilarious anecdotes about their mischievous bambinos to side-splitting stories of life in the Old Country, these vivacious women regale audiences with tales of family, food, and amore. But don’t let their warm hugs and homemade cannoli fool you – these matriarchs mean business when it comes to comedy. With their sharp tongues and quick wit, our Italian Mammas can slice through a punchline faster than Nonna can roll a single gnocchi.