Louisville families and food enthusiasts have a tasty weekend plan. Gelato Gilberto, located on Frankfort Avenue in the Crescent Hill neighborhood, is hosting the second‑ever GelatoFest on Sunday, September 20. The free, all‑day event runs from noon until 9 p.m. and promises a slice of Italy right in the heart of Louisville.
From Italy to Louisville
Owner Justin Gilbert, who spent three years traveling and training in Italy, says the festival reflects the authentic techniques he and his wife Kristin learned abroad. “We went to three different regions, trained with Italian experts, and visited local shops to see how people enjoy gelato and how it’s presented,” Gilbert explained. The couple brought those lessons back to Louisville, where their shop has been a neighborhood favorite for two decades.
What to expect
GelatoFest is designed as a family‑friendly celebration of Italian culture. Attendees can sample freshly made gelato – the Italian version of ice cream that contains less air and fat – as well as classic desserts like tiramisu. For those who prefer savory flavors, hot Italian dishes will be on offer. The festival also features live entertainment, alternating between jazz and opera to showcase the breadth of Italian musical heritage.
“The best gelato you can get is on a Sunday afternoon in Italy, when the line goes around the block and the gelato is just made,” Gilbert said. He added that the festival aims to recreate that experience for Louisville residents, letting them enjoy the same freshness and community spirit.
Community focus
GelatoFest is free and open to the public, reinforcing the shop’s commitment to making quality Italian treats accessible to all. “We wanted to layer in more Italian features – fresh food, a market vibe, even opera – so everyone can find something they love,” Gilbert noted. The event is an invitation to families, couples, and anyone looking for a relaxed weekend outing.
Local residents have praised Gelato Gilberto for its dedication to authentic flavors and community involvement. The festival adds to Crescent Hill’s vibrant street life and supports local businesses by drawing foot traffic to the area.
Practical details
GelatoFest will be held outside Gelato Gilberto’s storefront on Frankfort Avenue. The event is free, with no tickets required. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early for the best selection of gelato and to enjoy the live music schedule, which will alternate between jazz sets and short opera performances throughout the day.
For more information, visit the Gelato Gilberto website or follow their social media channels.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
