ZECCHINO D’ORO | First Time in the United States

The Italian Cultural Institute of New York is delighted to welcome, for the first time ever in the United States, the magic of Zecchino d’Oro and the Piccolo Coro dell’Antoniano, a beloved Italian tradition that has brought joy to generations of children and families for more than sixty years.

For more than 60 years, Zecchino d’Oro has been a beloved part of Italian childhood. Born in 1959 from the vision of television pioneer Cino Tortorella, the festival quickly became a cherished Italian tradition, bringing together children, music, and songs filled with messages of friendship, inclusion, solidarity, and joy. In 1961, Zecchino d’Oro found its permanent home at the Antoniano in Bologna, and in 1963 the Piccolo Coro dell’Antoniano was founded by the legendary Mariele Ventre.

Generations of Italian children have grown up singing its songs—and today, the tradition continues to inspire families around the world. The Piccolo Coro has become much more than a children’s choir: it is a symbol of childhood, music, friendship, and the universal joy of singing together.

Now, for the very first time in the United States, New York families have the special opportunity to meet the children of the Piccolo Coro and experience the magic of Zecchino d’Oro up close.

✨ SPECIAL MEET & GREET — FOR ALL AGES

Thursday, October 8, 2026 | 11:00 AM
Italian Cultural Institute of New York
686 Park Avenue, New York

Come meet the young singers, celebrate Italian music and culture, and share a joyful morning with a tradition that has brought generations of Italians together.

Children, parents, grandparents, and Zecchino d’Oro fans of every age are warmly invited!