The 90th Annual Summer Festa Picnic

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The Summer Festa Picnic is a long-standing family event held by the Society every year since its founding in 1929. The picnic brings a small piece of Italy and its traditions to central Illinois each summer. What began as a social event for Italian immigrants has evolved into the Society's major fundraiser for its three scholarship programs. Indeed, the picnic has become a major, family-centered, community event attended by hundreds of people. Join us at the Festa for food, fun, and family. This year's Festa will again feature two music acts, with Italian songs being sung by Vince Amore and Jack Miuccio.

Information, Directions, and Schedule of Events

WHEN: Sunday August 11, 2019 from Noon until 5:00 p.m.

WHERE: Hickory Grove Park which is located on Hickory Grove Road [HGR]. Take Illinois State Route 40 [in the city of Peoria called Knoxville Avenue], approximately 3 miles North of NorthPoint Shopping Center. Turn right onto HGR [there is a stoplight at the intersection of Rt. 40 and HGR]. Follow the road approximately 1 mile to the fork in the road. At the fork keep to the right and you will see the Park on your left. FREE PARKING is to the right.

FOOD: Authentic Italian recipies prepared by Barrack's Cater Inn: Chicken piccata, lasagna, vegetarian pasta, adult and children's spaghetti meals; meatball, sausage and Italian beef sandwiches. There will also be a variety of homemade Italian desserts including cannoli, Italian Ice (granita) pizzelles and gelato.

DRINK: Italian and domestic beer, wines, soda and water.

GIFT BOOTH: A large variety of Italian t-shirts, hats, pins and other items of Italian regalia will be available.

ADMISSION: The park is open to guests of all ages. Admission is $3 per adult at the gate. Children under 12 years old are free. Tickets will not be sold in advance. Please no pets except service animals.

2019 ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE

12:00 to 5:00 Live Italian music for dancing and entertainment provided by Vince Amore and Jack Miuccio.

12:30 to 4:00 Kid's Corner with inflatable attraction, games, and face painting.

12:45 to 1:00 Italian American Society Scholarship Awards

1:45 to 2:15 Children's Spaghetti-Eating Contest: three age groups (4-6, 7-9, and 10-12) with a prize for all contestants!

2:30 Bocce Tournaments for both Adults and Children. BRING YOUR BOCCE SETS!!

DISCOUNTS

If you have a Church group or other youth group of 15 or more, admission will be waived. Contact Bob Wille 309-453-6963 for arrangements.