The annual Italian Knifemakers Guild exhibition is also, and most importantly, an occasion to meet up with old friends. The show is traditionally preceded by a “Welcome Cocktail”, a friendly reception held in a banquet hall at the Marriott Hotel. Between sips of wine and tastes of the legendary local speciality, risotto alla milanese, knifemakers and their guests have a chance to gather in a cheerful and relaxing atmosphere, ready to face all that the following two days have in store.