Houston has been designated Capital of Italian Creativity in the World 2026, as part of the fourth edition of the award promoted by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, aimed at highlighting the best projects developed by Italy’s diplomatic, consular, and cultural network to promote Made in Italy worldwide. Alongside Houston, the recognition was also awarded to the cities of Belgrade and Bangkok.
The initiative celebrates Italian ingenuity and innovation, developed in synergy with the various components of the Sistema Italia, and bears witness to the dynamism of the diplomatic and consular network, the Italian Cultural Institutes, and ICE Offices in promoting and enhancing Italian excellence abroad. The award also represented an important opportunity to encourage Italian Missions abroad to design and implement projects capable of enhancing the National Made in Italy Day, established on April 15, 2024, through innovative initiatives deeply rooted in local contexts.
The selection of the winning projects was overseen by a commission composed of representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Ministry of Culture, and— for the first time—the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy. Evaluation criteria included the originality of the proposals, their consistency with the objectives of integrated promotion, and their ability to engage meaningfully with the local territories.
Within this framework, Houston stands out as one of the leading hubs of Italian creativity worldwide. A global, multicultural city with a strong focus on innovation, Houston was selected for its ability to promote in a structured and inclusive way the Italian contribution to strategic sectors such as science, technology, medicine, aerospace, energy, design, and culture.
The project “Lots of Italy in Houston,” presented by the Consulate General of Italy in Houston, will highlight the significant role played by Italians and Italian Americans in the city’s cultural, scientific, and economic growth. Throughout 2026, Houston will become a vibrant hub of Italian creativity thanks to a multifaceted program that will include an interactive app dedicated to Italian presences in the city, educational activities for schools, exhibitions, performances, and a network of initiatives spread across the territory, involving local institutions, academia, businesses, and the Italian community.
Within the framework of the Capitals of Italian Creativity in the World 2026, Houston represents a particularly meaningful model of integrated promotion of Italy abroad—one that combines creativity, innovation, culture, and Made in Italy, strengthening transatlantic dialogue and consolidating the role of the Consulate General of Italy as a point of reference for the Italian community, Italophiles, and local partners.
LOTS OF ITALY IN HOUSTON – Program
March 2 — Sparkling Italian: A Day of Made in Italy in Houston
A refined food and wine event featuring guided tastings, promotion of roots tourism, and initiatives to counter Italian sounding. In collaboration with Italian companies, the event highlights the authentic excellences of Made in Italy.
March 9 — Swing Italiano
On the occasion of the World Baseball Classic, an exclusive event with the Italian national baseball team, combining sport and culture through meetings with players, first-hand stories from the field, tastings of Italian food and wine excellences, and promotion of Italian-made sports equipment. A privileged networking opportunity connecting business, sport, and Italian tradition.
March 21 — Italian Adventures in Texas: Family Day
A full day dedicated to families, featuring educational and recreational activities, cooking workshops, animated readings, and the video game Italy: Land of Wonders. An engaging and fun way to explore the Italian language and culture.
March 30 — Italian Talent Show
A vibrant competition among university students, showcasing artistic performances in music, theater, poetry, and readings in Italian. A celebration of creative expression that fosters intercultural dialogue and highlights young talent.
April 18 — There Is a Lot of Space in Italy
At the Johnson Space Center, an event celebrating excellence in scientific cooperation between Italy and NASA, featuring ESA and ASI astronauts, researchers, companies, and institutions. The spotlight will be on the Artemis program and Italy’s role in the ISS, with exhibitions, round tables, and high-level presentations.
April 24 — Creative Contemporary Italian Art
The historic Florentine gallery i Guarnieri presents a masterclass with live demonstrations, reinterpreting Renaissance aesthetics through a contemporary lens. A unique artistic experience promoting creativity and excellence in Italian art.
April 30 — Advancing Medicine: Italian Insights in Houston
Hosted at the prestigious Texas Medical Center, this event highlights the contribution of Italian medical research in Texas. It fosters dialogue among scientists, companies, institutions, and the academic community, showcasing cutting-edge innovations and collaborations.
TBC — Tex in Texas
A cultural tribute to the legendary Tex Willer, an iconic figure of Italian comics, and his deep connection with the Texan Western imagination.
TBC — Exploring Italian Cultural Influence in Houston
An immersive journey through writing, literature, and creativity, celebrating the influence of contemporary Italian culture and offering audiences insight into its impact on Houston’s cultural scene.
TBC — Italian Advanced Technology Application
Italian companies and professionals present cutting-edge technological solutions, fostering dialogue and connections between innovation and the business world.
Further details on the events will be announced closer to their dates.
For additional information or inquiries, please contact: eventi.houston@esteri.it
