Program series - Explore Italy: Culture, cuisine, Language
Experience Italy without leaving Cleveland!
Explore Italy: Cuisine, Culture, and Language is an IAMCLE signature series that brings the richness of Italy to life through engaging, accessible experiences. Programs highlight regions, cities, and broader themes in Italian history and culture, weaving together storytelling, language, music, and tradition. Many sessions include curated food and wine tastings that connect participants more deeply to the places being explored. Designed for both newcomers and longtime enthusiasts, the series offers a welcoming way to experience Italy without leaving Cleveland. All programs take place at the Italian American Museum of Cleveland. See below for information on programs and registration.
Venice: Myth & Majesty, City on the Water Apr 25, 2026, 10:30a.m.-12:30p.m. $30
Venice rises from the lagoon as one of the most remarkable cities in the world, shaped by ingenuity, trade, and artistic achievement. Join Dr. Paola Basile to explore its history, architecture, and cultural legacy, from the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica to the power of the Venetian Republic. Samples of traditional Venetian food and wine will be provided.
Italian Folk Music & Tamburello Workshop - Jun 8-Aug 17, 2026, 7-8:15pm $150=6 classes, $30 each
Connect with the traditional songs and sounds of Italy in this 6-class workshop led by percussionist Anthony Taddeo. Participants will explore authentic folk music through voice and rhythm, with selections from the Alla Boara repertoire and Alan Lomax recordings. Sessions also introduce the tamburello and the cultural context behind the music.
No prior musical experience is required. Can register for all 6 classes or a single class. Class dates on registration page.
Ancient Rome: Power & Legacy September 12, 2026, 10:30a.m.-12:30p.m. $30 a person
Abruzzo & Molise: Roots of Cleveland's Italian Community Oct 3, 2026 10:30a.m.-12:30p.m. $30 pers
Ancient Rome shaped the foundations of Western civilization through its politics, engineering, and cultural achievements. This program explores the rise of the Roman Republic and Empire, examining daily life, governance, and the lasting impact of Roman innovation. Presented by Dr. Paola Basile, the experience also includes samples of traditional Roman food and wine.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON
Abruzzo & Molise: Roots of Cleveland's Italian Community Oct 3, 2026 10:30a.m.-12:30p.m. $30 pers
Abruzzo & Molise: Roots of Cleveland's Italian Community Oct 3, 2026 10:30a.m.-12:30p.m. $30 pers
Abruzzo and Molise share a rich cultural heritage shaped by landscape, tradition, and centuries of history. This program explores the distinct character of these neighboring regions, from their customs and cuisine to their art and everyday life. Presented by Dr. Paola Basile, the experience also includes samples of traditional food and wine from Abruzzo and Molise. .
REGISTRATON COMING SOON
The Birth of Italia: From Kingdoms to Nation Oct 24, 2026 10:30a.m.-12:30p.m. $30 person
Italia (Italy) as we know it today is the product of a long and complex history, shaped over centuries by remarkable men and women. This program explores the key figures, pivotal events, and cultural forces that made the Risorgimento possible, while tracing how a shared sense of Italianità began to emerge as early as ancient times.
Presented by Dr. Paola Basile, the program also features tastings of traditional foods and wines, offering a flavorful journey through Italy’s rich regional diversity.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON
Natale in Italia: Italian Christmas Traditions Dec 5, 2026, 10:30a.m. - 12:30p.m. $30 person
Celebrate the season through the rich traditions of Italian Christmas, from festive foods and customs to the spirit of family and faith that defines the holiday. This program explores how Christmas is observed across Italy, highlighting regional practices and enduring cultural traditions. Presented by Dr. Paola Basile, the experience includes samples of traditional Italian Christmas food and wine, along with a lively game of Tombola for prizes.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON
Italian Language Classes - 2026
Our Italian language classes provide a welcoming, small-group introduction to Italian, with an emphasis on practical vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversational skills. Classes may be taken individually or as a progressive series.
Winter/Spring Session
Wednesdays, January 14 – May 13, 2026, 6:00-7:15p.m.
- Basic I: January 14 – February 18
- Basic II: February 25 – April 1
- Basic III: April 8 – May 13
Summer/Fall Session
July 28-.November 25
- Basic I: July 28-Sept 1
- Basic II: Sept 8-Oct 13
- Basic III: Oct 20-Nov 24
- Basic IV: July 29-Sept 2
- Basic V: Sept 9 - Oct 14
- Basic VI: Oct 21-Nov 25
Classes are held in person. In the event of severe weather, a class may be moved to Zoom at the discretion of the instructor. Individual Zoom attendance is not available when classes are held in person.
Registration includes copies of all class handouts.
Fees
- $125 per level
Enrollment & Policies
- If the minimum enrollment of 10 students is not met, the class will be canceled and registration fees refunded.
- No refunds after the first class
- Class fees cannot be prorated; if you miss a class, please speak with the instructor to review what was covered
- Classes are listed in numerical order, but this is not a rigid sequence. Each level moves at a pace that reflects the needs of the students enrolled.
Eligibility
Open to adults and youth ages 12 and older.
New! Italian summer camp for i bambini
La Piazza: An Italian Cultural Summer Camp is a hands-on experience in the heart of Little Italy where children learn, explore, and connect through music, food, language, traditions, and community. Inspired by the Italian piazza—a lively gathering place where daily life and culture come together—the camp invites children to actively participate in Italian heritage through engaging, place-based activities. Designed as a small, immersive program, La Piazza fosters curiosity, creativity, and a meaningful connection to culture in a welcoming and thoughtfully structured environment. Presented in partnership with IAMCLE, Alla Boara, Work & Song Productions, and Cleveland Montessori.
Dates: July 27-31, 2026
Fee: TBD
Location: Cleveland Montessori School, 12510 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, OH
REGISTRATION AND DETAILS COMING SOON!!
