Galbani Italian Heritage Festival of Phoenix

Engagement in play and connection is fundamental to our overall wellness. It’s vital to have regular opportunities that inspire anticipation, allowing us to engage in play and foster with others. The Bliss Planet Foundation is dedicated to promoting wellness, and what could be a more impactful way to do this than by co-creating vibrant festivals?

Our first major festival occurred on March 1st and 2nd, 2025, at Heritage Square in downtown Phoenix, where thousands collaborated to shape a delightful experience. The Galbani Italian Heritage Festival of Phoenix was a beautiful testament to the significance of play and connection. This lively event was not merely a gathering but a celebration of community spirit, uniting thousands in a shared appreciation of culture through guets, volunteers, diverse vendors, captivating music, and mouthwatering cuisine. Every moment spent at the festival invited attendees to reconnect with cultural heritage and one another, strengthening relationships that go beyond the ordinary.

Here are some videos of the event

The Bliss Planet Foundation feels honored to have participated in such a remarkable co-creation of play and connection. Each individual contributed uniquely— from Steve Driscoll and Jim Sullivan funding this event, Francesco Guzzo, executive director, to volunteers, vendors, entertainers, and attendees, including Phoenix’s Mayor Kate Gallego, who proclaimed March 1st and 2nd, 2025 as “Italian Heritage Days.” By coming together to create these experiences, we aim to nurture environments where joy can blossom and relationships can flourish. Whether dancing to infectious rhythms, enjoying traditional Italian delicacies, or sharing stories with old friends and new acquaintances, every interaction at the festival underscored the importance of play in enhancing our well-being. As we cherish these joyful connections, we empower ourselves and our communities to thrive, reminding everyone that united, we can build a world filled with love, laughter, and harmony.