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August, 2024. Monterey, CA. 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.
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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
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Friday, September 6th, 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Friday night “Dancing under the Stars”
Food, Wine, Beer & Vendors (for purchase)
831 All Star Band – 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
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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:
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm The Money Band
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Sunday, September 8th, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Food, Wine & Vendors (for purchase)
11:00 am Tarantella Dancers
11:20 am 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.
Complimentary copies of his recipe will also be available.
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
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).
Enjoy these two low-cost family fun activities on the Upper Custom House Plaza during Festa Italia:
Euro Bungee
This amazing bungee trampoline flings you 25 feet into the air as you jump and flip on a trampoline. The Euro Bungee air power jump gives you the sensation of being completely weightless. Experience the adrenaline rush of a bungee jump as you perform gravity-defying moves at your own speed/pace. You control the amount of fun you can have. Weight limit: 30 lbs - 200 lbs.
Bubble Fun Water Balls
These Water Balls are the most innovative and fun inflatable you will find. Just climb inside the 6-foot water ball, and they will fill it with air and zip it up. Next you will enter the pool where you can walk, jump, roll, and float on the water. You don't want to miss this one-of-a-kind experience. Bubble Fun Water Balls are designed for all ages to enjoy. There is no age limit for this activity. Weight limit: 175 lbs.
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.
Pasquale Esposito
Pasquale Esposito was born and raised in Naples, Italy. He immigrated to the United States winning the Green Card Lottery in 1998. He pursued his passion for music by studying at San Jose State University receiving his Bachelor of Arts Degree where he was a distinguished alumnus in 2009. He is an international crossover recording artist, acclaimed for his pop-opera delivery of songs. Esposito released 9 albums and began touring internationally with his first musical revue: Naples … That’s Amore in 2005. Thereafter, he toured with his CD of Original Compositions: A Brand New Me (2009) and Il Tempo (2011).
831 All Star Band
Led by frontman Anthony Lane and featuring Marci Chapa (Beyoncé’s all female band) and Amalia Diaz, this band is hot. If you want to dance, get ready! The 831 All Star Band is here with a collaboration of the area's STAR performers from the 831. Hence the name THE 831 ALL STARS! The best musicians perform iconic covers from past to the present. Come join us and see and hear the BEST the 831 has to offer. The 831 All Star Band is exploding onto the Central Coast with their powerful sound. From Earth, Wind & Fire – showcasing their powerful horn section - to Cumbia, Salsa and Santana-style music highlighting their amazing rhythm section – all members have years of experience under their belts and are ready to give you a great show.
Anthony “Nino” Lane
Anthony "Nino" Lane was born as Antonino Pasquale Cotroneo in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Son of Giorgio Cotroneo of Santa Roberto, Reggio Di Calabria and Angelina Musitano of Deglia Nova, Reggio Di Calabria. At the young age of ten Nino began to perform with many bands in the Italian community. Singing mainly in Italian he was known as “the little Italian Singer” While in the Harmony Dance Band he was fortunate to open up for the Original "Ink Spots " and many other Nationally known headliners. At the Age of fourteen he decided to leave his Italian sound and begin his first rock Band "Double Vision" later to be called "Clear Cut", and they went on to record three albums. The first one under A&M records produced by Daniel Lanios (U-2, Peter Gabriel, Bonnie Raitt”). The second recorded under the CBS label, produced by Bob Destocki (Fast Times at Richmont High, The Ides of March”), and the final one on A & M Records again. At the same time Anthony studied with Rosemary Burns-Gazarra (the wife of Ben Gazzara) in Toronto, Canada. She was a former opera singer (New York Met) who had studied Bell Canto in Italy and had developed a technique for singing pop music. She called it 'the mask' and had been teaching it for many years. Her former students include Bryan Adams, Corey Heart, Jeff Healey, Sebastion Bach (Skid Row) And James Labrie (Dream Theatre). This would later change Anthony's life. Throughout the 80’s Anthony was a part of a powerful musical team. To make it easier in the music business, Anthony changed his name to Lane (Plain Lane is what he would say!) After 14 years on the road working fifty weeks a year, Anthony came to Los Angeles to try to secure a major label record contract. He had made his mark in L.A. but the music scene was beginning to change quickly. Anthony decided to move and open a Club in Monterey, named PLANET GEMINI which he ran successfully for 25 years. To keep Music alive, Nino purchased the Legendary FOX THEATER in Salinas, where he brings major shows and events. Anthony decided to follow his heart and sing the music he once enjoyed - Classic Italian. A performance you will all enjoy!
Mike Marotta & Friends
Mike Marotta & Friends will include Mike Marotta on accordion, Paul Langford on bass, Paul Tarantino on clarinet and sax, Dave Dally on violin, John Beron on drums, with singers Erasmo “Orazio” Aiello, Dave Marzetti, Rachel Marotta Halim and Anna Marotta Halim.
The Money Band
The Money Band is a high-energy band, entertaining crowds of all ages! For over fifteen years, they have earned their reputation as ambassadors of top 40 hits, performing for thousands of fans all over California and beyond. Also voted many recent years as Best Band on the Monterey Peninsula in The Carmel Pine Cone, The Monterey Herald, and The Monterey County weekly! Fronted by charismatic lead vocalist and harmonica player Zoe Alexander, The Money Band performs with a remarkable intensity and fire that garners new fans and critical acclaim.
The Money Band is accompanied with renowned and distinguished musicians, playing every style from country to funk, disco to classic rock, reggae, modern and pop, with songs from artists, including the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Elvis, Johnny Cash, Michael Jackson, Kid Rock, Bruno Mars, and Bon Jovi. “It’s humbling to know that people associate our songs with some of the most meaningful moments in their lives,” says Zoe Alexander. “We now have a multigenerational fan base and everyone is sure to hear their favorites.” This dynamic and popular band assures to get your party started, with a crowded dance floor all night long!
David Marzetti, Master of Ceremonies/Singer
This is the 31st year that David Marzetti has emceed and performed at Festa Italia with his close friend, Mike Marotta. David comes from a radio background that spans over 48 years. Besides his weekly M-F Afternoon Show 3-6p, David hosts the “ShagBag Show” every Saturday morning as well as "Sundays with Sinatra: Live from Old Fisherman’s Wharf". All of David's shows are broadcast on KMBY 1240 AM/95.9 FM. He is highly regarded as “Monterey’s Emcee” and hosts many local functions and fundraisers including Festa Italia, Santa Rosalia Queen’s Coronation Ball, La Merienda/City of Monterey’s Annual Birthday Celebration, The City of Monterey's 4th of July on the Lawn, Old Fisherman’s Wharf’s Annual Birthday Party, The Carmel Summer Live Music Series, and the Italian Heritage Society Awards Ceremony. David is the Winner of BEST TV/RADIO PERSONALITY in the Monterey Herald Readers Poll. And, a 3-time winner of the PGA Media Person of the Year Award. Congressman Jimmy Panetta calls David "The Voice of Monterey".
Tarantella Dancers of Monterey
The Tarantella Dancers perform on Saturday and Sunday at Festa Italia. No Italian wedding or celebration would be complete without the rhythmic song and dance of the Tarantella. It is considered by some to be the most popular of all the Italian songs and it is even considered by many as the song of Italy. The dance is both lively and graceful, with light and quick steps mixed with passionate gestures. The Tarantella, originally an Italian folk dance of the lower-and middle-classes has been labeled as a dance to cure sickness. Legend states that between the 15th and 17th centuries, an epidemic of tarantism swept through the town of Taranto in southern Italy, from being bitten by the poisonous tarantula spider. The victim, which is referred to as the tarantata, once bitten, could fall into a trance that could only be cured by frenzied dancing. People would surround the victim while musicians would play mandolins, guitars and tambourines in search of the correct rhythm. Each bet would have a different effect on the tarantata causing various movements and gestures. Once the correct rhythm was found, it was almost certain that the tarantata was cured. The Tarantella Dancers of Monterey perform annually at Festa Italia and other cultural events.
To schedule an interview and more information: (831) 633-4444 or brickman@brickmanmarketing.com.