By Declan Finucane. Published August 12, 2022 at 10:51 am
“Named one of Ontario’s top 100 festivals/events many times over the past decade, Mississauga Italfest returns to Celebration Square tonight and tomorrow (Aug. 12-13) with something for everyone to enjoy.
Music concerts, comedians, performances and activities for kids, local culinary experts demonstrating their skills, numerous food vendors, pasta- and watermelon-eating contests, soccer challenges, crafts and artisans, and much more are all on tap as the festival celebrates its 10th anniversary.
This weekend’s festival at the popular downtown Mississauga venue also marks a return to live performances and interaction after two years of virtual festivals due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Italfest organizers say this year’s event promises to be as good–if not better–than ever.
It kicks off tonight (Aug. 12) with on-stage performances from personalities “direct from Italy” that include Pino Gioia, Tony Monaco, DJ Danny D, Joee and Armando.
Saturday night performances feature Manuela Villa and rising star Roberta Battaglia.
Mississauga Italfest runs tonight (Aug. 12), from 5 to 11 p.m., and the party picks up again on Saturday for a full day and night of activities running from 12 noon to 11 p.m.
Admission to the festival is free.
“Experience some of Italy’s finest in the heart of Mississauga” is among the themes of the event this year.
Attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year, Mississauga Italfest celebrates “the beauty of Italian heritage and culture,” organizers say.
A wide variety of cultural and family-oriented activities, entertainment from local and international talent, a thriving “mercato” (market) and more are also on the ticket this weekend.
Mayor Bonnie Crombie reminded people earlier this week at City council that Italfest is the place to be the next two days.
“Mississauga Italfest is a highly-anticipated festival, a jewel in our city’s lineup of premier events throughout the summer and one that I am extremely proud to support,” Crombie is quoted as saying on the festival’s website.
Next weekend, Aug. 20-21, Japan Festival Canada takes over Celebration Square as the largest Japanese cultural event in North America, according to organizers.
(All photos: Mississauga Italfest)“
