There are a few cultures that have helped shape Vancouver into the city it is today. Italians are one of them. Starting in the 1940’s-1970’s, Commercial Drive became a place of gather for Italian residents and businesses. They had a great influence in the development and community of Commercial Drive so along came the name, “Little Italy”.
(@italiandayonthedrive / Instagram)
This Vancouver neighbourhood is one of the most colourful, shopping, dining and nightlife districts you will find in the city. Little Italy is 8 blocks which represents 60 years of Italian heritage. Today the vibe of Little Italy is still in the same unique and vibrant district that it was back in the 1970’s. Over time, there have been more ethnicities moving into the area creating a more diverse district but the area has not lost any of its Italian spirit.
The Drive offers many different resultants and other businesses owned and operated by Italians. These places are always welcoming you to come and try them out. Some of the best spots along The Drive have been around for as long as 80 years.
There are Restaurants such as Abruzzo, Arriva’s Ristorante, Cafe Calabria, Falconetti’s, Fratelli’s Bakery, Giancarlo’s Sports Bar, Livia Bakery, Lombardo’s Pizzeria and Ristorante, Marcellos’s Ristorante and Pizzeria, Prado Café, Renzo’s Café, Sopra Sotto Pizzeria, The Drive Coffee Bar. All of these are Italian owned and operated with delicious food and drinks.
There are also have many Italian owned businesses such as markets, travel agencies, tattoo shops, liquor stores and clothing shops.
(@lomardospizza / Instagram)
June is Italian heritage month and every June since 2010, Vancouver has has Italian Day on The Drive. Italian Day celebrates the Italian culture and community and has become the largest cultural event and festival in Vancouver.
2012 Italian Day (@italiandayonthedrive / Instagram)
Italian Day usually has over 150 street participants, partners, merchants, vendors and organizers. Over 300,000 people of all ages and cultures attend to support this day.
Unfortunately the 10 year Anniversary had to be canceled this year due to COVID-19 but they still managed to find ways to celebrate. They came up with a new initiative, Italian Day on The Drive for Courage. This was inspired by the songs and music coming from balconies and rooftops, the impact on how COVID brought everyone together on The Drive and an awareness for mental health organizations that have been financially impacted. They received many donations to this cause and it was also able to bring local artists together with playing music from balconies and rooftops during the 7pm tribute to frontline workers.
Little Italy has many spots for people to come shop and dine. Most businesses have been impacted by COVID-19 and this is a great spot to come out to support local businesses.