Il Gruppo ’76 Welcome Reception

Welcome Back to Florence

Fifty years later, we’re back where it all began. Begin the Il Gruppo ’76 50th reunion with classmates, partners and guests as we return to Cal State Florence, then reconnect over an informal café reception.

This is one opening-day experience, with one ticket covering both the university visit and the reception. It is a relaxed opportunity to renew old friendships, welcome guests and start our reunion together before the following two days of activities.

Tuesday, November 10, 2026

5:00 PM — Return to Cal State Florence
Meet at California State University Florence, Via Leopardi 12. Faculty and current students will welcome the group, with an opportunity to visit the facility and learn about the university’s current activities.

Approximately 5:45 PM — Walk to the Reception
We will leave the university and walk together to nearby Bistro Café 1926.

6:00–7:30 PM — Welcome Reception at Bistro Café 1926
Settle in for a relaxed, social evening of conversation, catching up and reconnecting with classmates and guests. Share stories from our year in Florence and look ahead to the reunion activities to come.

All times are Florence local time (Europe/Rome). Please note that the university visit starts at 5 PM and the café reception begins at 6 PM.

Food and Beverages

The apericena buffet includes savory hors d’œuvres, crostini, canapés, salame and prosciutto, pappa al pomodoro (Tuscan tomato and bread soup), dessert, and one cocktail OR glass of wine OR nonalcoholic drink.

Price and Booking

€35 per person, plus the service charge shown at checkout. Book one ticket for each person attending. One ticket covers both parts of the event; there is no separate ticket for the university visit.

Book and pay online. Your order summary will show the number of tickets, service charge and total payment.

Practical Information

Meet at CSU Florence, Via Leopardi 12, for the 5 PM start. Please contact the Reunion Committee at ilgruppo76@gmail.com about dietary or accessibility needs, including any questions about the walk between venues.

If Your Plans Change

Please email ilgruppo76@gmail.com as soon as possible if you need to cancel, so we can track cancellations and keep our attendee count accurate. Include the name used for the booking and the number of places to cancel.

View the Welcome Reception page for event information and the map showing both locations.