San Jose: Italian Family Festa returns this weekend after a two-year hiatus
After a two-year pandemic hiatus, the Italian American Heritage Foundation is set to host its 40th annual Italian Family Festa this weekend, Aug. 20-21, at San Jose History Park.
New this year is a children’s area, Ragazzi Zona, sponsored by Harker School and set in a large grassy area where children can hear Italian storytellers, enjoy crafts and learn a little Italian.
The U.S. Navy brass band will be on hand, along with a few friendly naval robots. The Roma Stage will feature musical acts Mike Annuzzi, Blue House, Bella Ciao, John DeMers, a tribute to Sinatra and our “Saturday Night Street Dance” with local tribute band Livewire. The Anthony “Nino” Lane Band will perform on Sunday only.
Attendees can enjoy a culinary demonstration on the La Cucina Galbani Cooking Stage with “Chef Marco” Sciortino, along with a variety of local chefs. Galbani will also host the cheese log-building contest for kids both days.
The festa’s Cultural Village, presented by JP Napoli Companies, will feature presentations on local Italian history, and demonstrations by lace makers and the Italian Renaissance Swordsmanship Academy.
The event also features grape stomps and marionette shows both days, along with the Festa Wine Tasting Garden, presented by the Sobrato Philanthropies, which will pour vintages from local Italian wineries.
The admission-free festa is set for 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday at San Jose History Park, 1650 Senter Road. Parking lot shuttles will be available.
For a full schedule of activities, visit www.italianfamilyfestasj.org/schedule.