Global culinary icon Lidia Bastianich is coming to Women’s Weekend

The fourth edition of Women’s Weekend will once again bring together experts who boldly push boundaries, shape generations, and drive profound social change. From 5 to 8 March 2026, this influential festival, which has become one of the most impactful events in the region in just three years, will transform Rijeka’s Art Kvart into a vibrant stage for visionary ideas and extraordinary life stories.  This year’s program will be highlighted by the arrival of legendary culinary figure Lidia Bastianich, one of the most influential women in global gastronomy – a name synonymous with excellence, unwavering passion, and exceptional cultural impact.

A culinary icon who has inspired millions

If anyone has masterfully intertwined tradition, family heritage, and contemporary cuisine into an influence that extends far beyond gastronomy, it is Lidia Bastianich. Her love for food and cooking was shaped during her childhood in her native Istria, from where her family was forced to flee due to war and political circumstances. They found a new home in the United States, where Lidia entered the food industry at a very young age and quickly made her first big steps. An Emmy Award–winning television host, bestselling author, and one of the key partners behind Eataly – the world-renowned Italian culinary concept that unites marketplaces, restaurants, and cooking schools – Lidia is coming to Rijeka to inspire audiences with her extraordinary personal and professional journey.

A particularly special chapter of Lidia’s career is her connection with Julia Child, one of the most influential culinary figures of the 20th century, who was among the first to recognize her talent. Julia’s invitation to appear on her iconic PBS show became a turning point – opening the door to Lidia’s television career and sparking a lifelong friendship between the two icons.

As one of the world’s most recognized culinary leaders – with a career marked by Emmy Awards, James Beard recognitions, acclaimed TV series, restaurants, and books – Lidia Bastianich is joining Women’s Weekend 2026 to share the values and experiences behind her global success, and to encourage women to claim their space, voice, and confidence in their own careers – especially in the year when the Kvarner region holds the prestigious title of European Region of Gastronomy.

From inner battles to global politics: women opening essential conversations

Women’s Weekend is also announcing two more highly influential leaders with truly impressive international careers. Among them is a woman who, like Lidia Bastianich, built her life and success in the United States as an immigrant, turning a new beginning into a remarkable achievement and global impact.

We are proud to welcome Nathalie Rayes – a woman whose voice resonates far beyond the boundaries of politics. The former U.S. Ambassador to Croatia and one of the leading advocates for women’s empowerment has dedicated her career to female leadership, equality, and creating opportunities for new generations of girls. At Women’s Weekend, she will share her journey in her keynote, “From Immigrant to Ambassador – A Story of Resilience, Identity, and Purpose,” offering a profoundly personal perspective shaped by perseverance and vision. Known for her energy, clarity, and tireless fight for democracy, human rights, and women’s visibility, Rayes has built a professional path that combines diplomacy, social impact, and bold leadership. Her biography includes leadership of the Latino Victory Foundation, an organization that opened doors for a new generation of Latino political leaders, as well as high-level positions in Mexican-American diplomacy and Los Angeles public administration. Today, she is recognized as a key figure within the Atlantic Council and Council on Foreign Relations, with influence felt on both sides of the Atlantic.

Also joining us in Rijeka next March is Carolyn Cowan, a British therapist, artist, and educator. One of Europe’s most progressive voices in women’s mental health, body image, sexuality, and trauma healing, Cowan’s career is truly unique: from internationally acclaimed fashion photographer and style icon of the 80s and 90s to a therapist helping thousands of women across the globe. Combining psychotherapy, spiritual practices, and uncompromising openness, Carolyn Cowan will create space for vital conversations about the body, sexuality, boundaries, and healing – topics that are incredibly important yet still too rarely discussed in public.

Experiences that inspire and a festival that grows year after year

Women’s Weekend will once again gather hundreds of participants, international speakers, and an audience eager for new knowledge, ideas, and connections. Over four days, the festival will combine inspiration, creativity, music, art, networking, and the signature atmosphere that has already made it one of the region’s most important events dedicated to women. The fourth edition will bring an even more dynamic programme, new surprises, and experiences that keep audiences returning year after year.

More information -including a special Black Week ticket offer – is available on the festival’s official website and social media channels:  Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok.

See you in Rijeka from 5th to 8th March 2026!