A BIT of Gratitude 2025 - Grand Opening Dinner Celebration

The BIT Center proudly announces the grand opening of The Forge, its new 14,000-square-foot campus at 3009 Greenmount Avenue, with a four-day celebration during the weekend of January 23–25, 2026, marking the 70th anniversary of the organization formerly known as the Italian Cultural Center of Maryland.

The celebration opens Friday, January 23 with an Inauguration and Celebration Dinner, beginning with hot tea and hot chocolate, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and the official unveiling of The BIT Center’s new branding. The evening continues with a special grand opening dinner designed by our Executive Chef and VP of Gastronomy, Taueret K. Thomas, honoring the volunteers, partners, and supporters who helped bring The Forge to life.

Tickets for the Celebration Dinner are $125 per person (limited seating) and are on sale here on Eventrite.

To learn more about the Forge please visit https://thebitcenter.org/the-forge.

From Friday–Sunday, January 23–25, festivities continue with the 9th National Children’s Gastronomy Festival, featuring hands-on cooking classes, live demonstrations, and family-friendly culinary experiences inspired by Italian and Mediterranean traditions.

“This milestone honors 70 years of cultural legacy and community impact,” said Monica E. Lapenta, Executive Director and CEO of The BIT Center. “The Forge is where our heritage meets our future — a place where food, art, and opportunity shape healthier, more connected communities.

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Host or Publisher Italian Cultural Center of Maryland