A beloved festival that honors the Tri-State's rich Italian heritage with live music, historical displays and tons and tons of food is back this weekend for its 31st year.
Italianfest starts Thursday, June 8 and runs through Sunday, June 11 at Newport on the Levee’s Riverboat Row. The foodie fest expects to draw around 120,000 visitors this year.
"Experience a slice of Italy in the heart of Newport. Where the aroma of authentic cuisine wafts through the air, the sounds of traditional music echoes by the river, and the spirit of community and heritage warms the hearts of all who visit. This isn't just a festival, it's a passport to a vibrant cultural journey right in our backyard!” Newport mayor Thomas Guidugli Jr. said in a press release.
This year, folks can expect a celebrity spaghetti eating contest, a cooking contest, Italian musicians and festival rides.
Restaurants including Pagano's, Pompilios, Royal Roman, Sweet Tooth and more will provide the authentic eats, which range from chicken parmigiana to alfredo and bruschetta to cannoli.
The event is free to attend for guests of all ages. Hours are 5-11 p.m. June 8-9; noon-11 p.m. June 10; and noon-9 p.m. June 11.
For more information, including a live music lineup, visit italianfestnewport.com.
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