Organizers announce plans for Little Italy Days in Bloomfield
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- The annual Little Italy Days festival will soon be back in Bloomfield.
Liberty Avenue from Ella to Gross Streets will transform into the city's largest heritage festival from Aug. 18-21.
"Little Italy Days is coming back for the 20th year, and it's going to be a fantastic day of entertainment and Italian pride," said recent KDKA retiree Paul Martino, who will emcee the event.
Organizer Sal Richetti said they expect thousands to attend like last year.
Richetti said after visitors indulge in the savory and sweet Italian foods, they can support local businesses.
"This is Christmas for Bloomfield businesses," said Richetti. "This kind of makes and breaks them through the year. They tell me every year this helps pay their taxes, their employees, inventory. This is huge."
Richetti said people can also dance to the beat of a variety of bands while Italian songs fill the air.
"We have the Earth Wind & Fire Tribute Band. They're a national band here in Pittsburgh," said Richetti. "We have the Magic Moments from Bloomfield. They're the number one oldies band in Pittsburgh. We have several other Italian singers."
Whether people are filling their souls with music or stomachs with food, Richetti hopes they embrace the culture and help keep it alive.
"We want to see the smiles on their faces," said Richetti. "That's how I get paid, seeing all the smiles on their faces and just enjoying a fun and safe festival. And again, everyone is Italian that weekend."
Richetti said they'll also honor former Steelers player Franco Harris as he celebrates his 50th anniversary of the Immaculate Reception.
Harris will also lead the Italian vs. Irish celebrity bocce tournament on Thursday.
For more information on Little Italy Days, visit this link.