Festa Italia

SEPTEMBER 8-10, 2023

Viva Italia! Celebrate everything Italian at the Annual Festa Italia Santa Rosalia Festival that takes place over three days in the historic Custom House Plaza – Monterey State Historic Park, adjacent to Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey. This FREE family-friendly event honors the history of the fishing industry in Monterey, and shares the sights, sounds, food and culture that make the Italian experience so special. Si prega di venire in Italiano per la giornata -- Please come be Italian for the day!

Festa Italia Food and Gifts

The delicious flavors of Italy are enjoyed by attendees with tasty and authentic Italian food offerings (for purchase) including Calamari Fritti, Steak and Sausage Sandwiches, Pasta and Meatballs, Arancini (rice balls), Cannoli, Pizza, Chocolate Covered Biscotti, and more, as well as Peroni beer, wine, sodas and water.

There is also an array of Italian and Festa Italia-themed merchandise as well as vendors selling crafts and more.  

Festa Italia Entertainment

The popular music runs the gamut, from performances of favorite legendary Italian songs by Mike Marotta & Friends, Anthony Lane Band and the internationally known Pasquale Esposito, to the rock sounds of the Money Band and Chicano All Stars. The talented Tarantella Dancers also perform traditional Italian dances.

Don’t miss the competitive Bocce Tournament on Saturday and Sunday and fun activities for the kids, too.  The reigning Queen of the Santa Rosalia Festa Italia, Lainie Nozicka, will also be on site and available for photo ops.

History of Festa Italia

The first Festa Italia was celebrated in 1933, when a statue of Santa Rosalia, the patron Saint of Sicilian fishermen, was donated to the San Carlos Cathedral. Sicilian fishermen would pray to their patron Saint for a safe journey and bountiful journey.

The schedule and more details can be found at www.festaitaliamonterey.org

Festa Italia Hotels

Several hotels are conveniently located in downtown Monterey and walking distance to the event including the Portola Hotel & Spa, Monterey Marriott, and Hotel Pacific.

About the Author

Wendy Brickman is the owner of Brickman Marketing, a multi-award-winning PR, Marketing and Event Management firm founded in Monterey in 1990. Formerly with Paramount Pictures in Los Angeles, Wendy loves publicizing the culture, beauty, marine wildlife and festivals of the Monterey Peninsula!