Little Italy festival celebrates history and heritage

By Kai Oliver-Kurtin | Downtown News

For the 19th annual Sicilian Festival on May 20, Little Italy will transform into a lively, colorful stream of musicians, food vendors and historical lore.

With an attendance of over 100,000 people last year, one of which was Food Network host Giada de Laurentiis, the festival has maintained its status as the largest of its kind in the country.

“We’re committed to celebrating the history and heritage of Sicilian-Americans,” said Entertainment Director Giovanna DiBona.

A classical music and opera stage have been added to this year’s lineup, as well as an expanded cultural pavilion. The pavilion will showcase historical memorabilia and photos, including information related to San Diego’s tuna fishing industry, traditional Italian chalk art and displays from local museums and organizations.

DiBona said one of the main highlights of the festival is the food, with an emphasis on Sicilian cuisine’s earthy, rustic flavors and distinct spice. She said she invites all members of the community to “eat, drink and be Sicilian for a day,” adding, “It’s like a big family reunion. People come to see each other and catch up over a meal.”

On one of the five major stages, local chefs will prepare Sicilian dishes during a cooking demonstration, followed up by a pasta-eating contest.

In a unique opportunity, attendees are invited to kick off their shoes, step inside a barrel and participate in a traditional grape stomp. Those with a taste for speed can visit the Italian car show, where brands such as Ferrari, Maserati and Lamborghini will be on display.

At 11:30 a.m., a festival procession will send costumed dancers, musicians and local officials through the streets with flags representing various regions of Italy and Sicily.

“So much of the Sicilian-American culture has remained intact here,” DiBona said. “The festival procession is really indicative of what’s seen in Italy and Sicily.”

Among those providing festival entertainment is soprano Cristina Fontanelli, the acclaimed Roman Holiday Ensemble, the Alessandra Belloni and Ensemble tambourine troupe and the Screamin’ Primas performing Italian Swing, among others.

A family-friendly event, the festival also includes several children’s activities throughout the day. Taking place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the festival is free to attend. Free parking is also available in the north lot of the county administration building with a shuttle to and from the festival. For more information, visit sicilianfesta.com.