Festa Italiana, Houston’s annual Italian festival hosted by the Italian Cultural and Community Center, turns 40 this year. The four-day event celebrates the food, music and culture of Italy and runs from October 11 through 14 on the grounds of the University of St. Thomas at 3800 Montrose. Admission is free from 5 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, October 11 and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, October 12. Otherwise, ticket prices start at $6 for general admission and there is also a $25 advance purchase deal that includes $30 worth of food tickets and entrance to the festival.

“What I love about this festival is that it brings the city of Houston together to celebrate our Italian heritage and lets everyone try this great food from a bunch of different restaurants,” said Piatto Ristorante’s John Carrabba, who’s served on Festa Italiana’s executive committee for a dozen years. “There’s bocce ball and a classic car show, too. It’s great!”