The St. Rocco – St. Anthony Society of Ishpeming is set to host its quasquicentennial Italian Fest on July 27 at the Al Quaal Recreation Area in Ishpeming. This event is to help Italian-Americans celebrate St. Rocco and St. Anthony, but also a time for the community to gather to enjoy Italian food, listen to local music and enjoy family said event cook Ann Christensen.

“It is about family, we sing and dance and enjoy ourselves. Even after the event is over,” said Christensen. “My grandpa was one of the members who started this, back then there was no safety net if you got hurt or couldn’t work. They had groups that would help you get on your feet and it eventually turned into this.”