LuLu Group’s ‘Festival Italiano’ was inaugurated by Italian Ambassador Guido De Sanctis at LuLu Hypermarket, Al Gharafa. The festival runs until November 21.

The inaugural ceremony was also attended by a number of other dignitaries from corporate business groups.
The event is being hosted by LuLu Group in conjunction with the ongoing ‘Week of Italian Cuisine: The Extraordinary Italian Taste,’ organised by the Italian embassy and Italian Chamber of Commerce, according to a press statement.
The objective is to introduce and promote Italian foods and food habits among the local community as well as the large cross-section of ethnic communities from various countries, the statement notes.
A 35m pizza was cut as part of the celebration, while replicas of the Colosseum, Leaning Tower of Pisa and other ancient structures of Italy were created and displayed at the venue.
The event has also been conceptualised to accelerate the import of agricultural produce, cheese and other deli products, dry groceries, Italian cooking ranges and other electrical appliances, and houseware items from Italy to the Middle East.
Italian recipe contests, cooking lessons and demonstrations by leading Italian chefs, insights into various cooking styles and ingredients of Italian cuisine are some of the activities planned in the food category.
Other attractions include special counters and kiosks promoting offers on different Italian electronics and home appliances, new product launches and demonstrations, designer sunglasses from leading Italian brands, collections of Italian perfumes and beauty accessories, and fashion wear and footwear for all age groups.
“We have been conducting ‘Festival Italiano’ from the year 2004 in Qatar and strive to launch innovative promotions every year,” said Mohamed Althaf, director of LuLu Group. He thanked the Italian envoy and his team as well as officials from the Italian Trade Commission for their “wholehearted support”. “We consider it as our privilege to associate with them in hosting this festival.”