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Local Event
Cost: Free
The 91st Annual Festa Italia Santa Rosalia Fisherman’s Festival is set to captivate the community on September 6-8, 2024, inviting all to join in the festivities honoring the city's Italian heritage and the indelible contributions of its local fishermen, past and present.
Festa Italia is a beloved family-friendly free event, known for its immersive experience of Italian sights, sounds, food, and culture, and provides a memorable celebration for attendees of all ages. Drawing both locals and visitors from the Bay Area and beyond, the free festival has become a cherished tradition that highlights the essence of the Italian experience.
Scheduled over three days, Festa Italia offers an array of authentic Italian cuisine, accompanied by great music, lively dancing, and an abundance of fun and friendship. Attendees can indulge in the delectable flavors of Italy, with a tempting selection of culinary delights available for purchase. From mouthwatering Calamari to savory Steak and Sausage Sandwiches, Pasta, Arancini, Shrimp, three kinds of Pizza (Cheese, Pepperoni and Vegetarian) and delicious Cannoli, the festival promises a gastronomic journey that mirrors the rich tapestry of Italian culinary excellence. To complement the experience, a variety of beverages, including wine, beer, sodas, water, and cookies will also be available for sale.
NEW this year will be an Eggplant Parmesan Sandwich which is perfect for vegetarians and eggplant lovers.
Also, award-winning Celebrity Chef/Gourmet Realtor Tene Shake will do a Calamari Cooking Demonstration with recipes for attendees on Saturday, September 7th at 1:00 pm and Sunday, September 8th at 11:30 am.
Acclaimed singers, including internationally renowned Pasquale Esposito, 831 All Star Band, Mike Marotta, Jr. and Friends, tenor Erasmo Aiello, the Anthony Lane Band, Money Band, and Tarantella Dancers will entertain. The event also features a highly anticipated bocce tournament open to everyone by reservation.
In addition to the culinary offerings, attendees can check out all the collectible Italian and Festa Italia-themed merchandise. Attendees will also enjoy visiting a diverse array of additional vendors showcasing unique crafts, jewelry, clothing and more.
The roots of Festa Italia trace back to 1933 when the inaugural celebration took place, marked by the donation of a statue of Santa Rosalia, the patron saint of Sicilian fishermen, to the San Carlos Cathedral. This tradition began as Sicilian fishermen sought the blessings of their patron saint for safe journeys and bountiful harvests. Festa Italia serves as a testament to the importance of preserving cultural heritage and passing it down to future generations.
In the spirit of honoring the region’s Sicilian roots and keeping cultural stories alive, Festa Italia invites attendees to partake in this joyous and festive event. Embrace the traditions of old and new, ensuring that this shared heritage is not merely remembered but celebrated with enthusiasm.
Don’t miss the 91st Festa Italia, where the spirit of Italy comes alive in Monterey. Everyone is welcome to join in this cultural extravaganza and free, fun event!
Festa Italia is supported annually by many outstanding sponsors including the Arts Council for Monterey County, thanks to support from the Monterey County Board of Supervisors.
At a Glance:
What: 91st Festa Italia held by the Festa Italia Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization
Festival Entry Cost: Free
Where: Custom House Plaza – Monterey State Historic Park, Downtown Monterey
When: Friday – Sunday, September 6-8, 2024
Friday, September 6th, 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Food, Wine, Beer & Vendors (for purchase)
Friday night “Dancing under the Stars”
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm: 831 All Star Band
Saturday, September 7th, 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
11:30 am – 12 Noon - Opening Ceremonies and Procession to Old Fisherman’s Wharf for the traditional Blessing of the Fishing Fleet, followed by live entertainment and all event activities, including the Bocce Tournament.
Antonio (Tony) Davi will be the honored Grand Marshall.
Note: A special Mass will be held at 10:00 am at the nearby San Carlos Cathedral, located at 500 Church Street in Monterey.
Food, Wine & Vendors (for purchase)
12 Noon – 1:00 pm Mike Marotta & Friends
1:00 pm – 1:20 pm Fisherman’s Wharf Calamari Cooking Demonstration by award-winning Chef Tene Shake of Kokomo’s/Grotto Fish Market.
Complimentary copies of his recipe will also be available.
1:20 pm – 2:20 pm Anthony Lane Band
Tarantella Dancers
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm Pasquale Esposito
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm Anthony Lane Band
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Pasquale Esposito
Saturday Night, September 7th – “Dancing Under the Stars” with:
6:30 pm – 9:00 pm The Money Band
Sunday, September 8th, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Food, Wine & Vendors (for purchase)
12 Noon – 1:00 pm – Anthony Lane Band
1:15 pm – 2:15 pm - Pasquale Esposito
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm Mike Marotta & Friends
3:45 pm – 4:45 pm - Pasquale Esposito
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm – Anthony Lane Band
Schedule Subject to Change
Fisherman’s Wharf Calamari Cooking Demonstration by award-winning Chef Tene Shake of Kokomo's/Grotto Fish Market on Sunday at 11:30 am. Complimentary copies of his recipe will also be available.
Bocce Tournament Saturday and Sunday, September 7th and 8th at the bocce courts at Custom House Plaza – Monterey State Historic Park
Tickets will be sold for a 50-50 Drawing (need not be present to win).
Information: (831) 633-4444 or email mail@FestaItaliaMonterey.org
Additional information and updates will be posted on the website: www.FestaItaliaMonterey.org
Event Sponsors
Thank you to our many valued sponsors of the 2024 Festa Italia, including the Arts Council for Monterey County, thanks to support from the Monterey County Board of Supervisors.
Hosted by
Festa Italia Foundation
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