Plans are in place for this weekend’s Italian Festival, set for Saturday and Sunday, May 13 and 14, at the Southeast Expo Center west of McAlester. “We’re predicting great weather and a huge turnout,” said Bobby Lenardo, one of the Italian Festival Committee members.

Everything from food, music, carnival rides and the traditional arts and craft show are planned — along with a first-time event for this year’s festival. The traditional arts and crafts show will be held on the east side of the Southeast Expo Center. Lenardo said the arts and crafts vendors will be set up on the air-conditioned side of the Expo Center.