The 31st Annual Italian Festival is coming to the City of Newport.
The Italian Festival, also known as “Italianfest,” was founded in 1991 when Mayor Thomas Guidugli Sr. and Commissioner Jerry Peluso recognized a need in the community for a family-oriented event that celebrated the Italian cultural heritage present in Newport for generations. The Italian Festival has since grown from a gathering of 5,000 visitors to 120,000 expected visitors this year.
The event is held on Riverboat Row between the Taylor-Southgate Bridge and the Purple People Bridge below the Newport Aquarium from Thursday, June 8, through Sunday, June 11.
Families visiting the Italian Festival can expect to sample Italian cuisine from the region’s Italian restaurants, listen to traditional Italian and modern music, watch a celebrity spaghetti eating contest, participate in a cooking contest, enjoy festival rides, play games, and other family-friendly activities.
Those interested in attending can click here for a comprehensive guide, including a schedule of events, menu, and background on the performers.
