One of Northwest Indiana's most popular celebrations of Italian heritage is set to return as Festa Italiana transforms the grounds of Villa Cesare into a three-day festival dedicated to the flavors, music, and traditions of Italy.
The festival opens on Friday, July 17, from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., continues Saturday, July 18, from noon until 11:00 p.m., and concludes Sunday, July 19, from noon to 8:30 p.m. at Villa Cesare in Schererville, Indiana.
Admission is free, and organizers expect thousands of visitors throughout the weekend to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, live entertainment, cultural activities, family attractions, and classic competitions that have become annual favorites.
Visitors will find a wide variety of Italian specialties, along with a beer and wine garden, bocce, pasta-making classes, children's activities, and a full entertainment lineup featuring Italian American performers and musicians throughout the weekend. Popular attractions include spaghetti-eating contests, grape-stomping competitions, and a bocce tournament that celebrates one of Italy's oldest sporting traditions.
This year's entertainment schedule features Vince Amore and Nawty on Friday evening. Saturday includes performances by Frankie Seta, the Tradizione Vivente Italian dance group, Jeffrey Lyle Segal's tribute to Tony Bennett, Jim Bulanda, and Dick Diamond & The Dusters. Sunday's lineup includes Carmelo Zaccone, the Tommy Panici Quartet, and Crawpuppies, providing music that ranges from classic Italian favorites to contemporary hits.
Hosted annually by Villa Cesare, Festa Italiana has become a signature cultural event in the Chicago metropolitan region, bringing together Italian Americans, local families, and visitors eager to experience Italy's culinary traditions and welcoming community spirit. By combining authentic food, live performances, traditional games, and family-friendly activities, the festival continues to celebrate the enduring influence of Italian culture in Northwest Indiana while offering a festive summer gathering for all ages.
