In Italy playing cards is a way to enjoy some friendly competition ~ whether it’s at home or at a favorite trattoria.  From scopa to tre sette to briscola, you’ll see these games played not only in Rome, Venice, and Milan but also at the ICD Clubhouse!

On Wednesday, May 11^th, it will be time to pull up a chair and learn how to play one of Italy’s most popular card games ~ Scopa!  The men and women who are pros at playing and who you see weekly throwing down cards with gusto will teach anyone who’s interested in sharing this simple yet integral part of Italian culture.  A pair of knowledgeable players will be at each table, explaining the rules, scoring, and strategies of what is a truly simple and fun game. 

The evening’s lesson, which is offered at no cost, will begin at 7:30, so you will have time to enjoy some pasta or pizza beforehand.  Then it will be time to refill your glass, settle into a chair, put on your “game face,” and learn what the “Primiera” is, why it’s the lucky player who gets the “Sette Bello,” and much more!  This will be the first in a series of card lessons, so look for future opportunities to learn Briscola, Briscollone, and Tre Sette as well ~ armed with these four games, you’ll be ready to join in a round of play not only at the ICD Clubhouse but at any Italian osteria on your next trip.

Contact Mary Ann Webster at culture@itcd.org with any questions.  We’ll provide the cards ~ you just come ready to learn and have fun!