Date: June 19-21, 2009
Cost: Free
Organizer: Onesti Entertainment Corporation
What to expect: A Chicago neighborhood turned into ancient Italy, including food, wine and music.
Why to go: Sorrento Cheese will be in abundance...mmm.
Additional info: Formerly known as The Heart of Italy Food & Wine Festival (and now sponsored by Sorrento Cheese), this is the city's largest and most popular celebration of Italian culture. The fest turns the neighborhood into ancient Italy, replete with columns, statues and fountains. Neighborhood restaurants offer authentic cuisine focusing on the Northern region. There's fun for everyone, from the "Via Bambini" Kids Street to the parade of costumes from The Carnivale in Venice. Free parking.
2009 Entertainment Schedule
Friday, June 19
5:30 p.m.: Tony Yarrio
7 p.m.: Three Faces of Frank Sinatra
9 p.m.: The Bronx Wanderers- From NY, Frankie Valli, Dion and more
Saturday, June 20
1 p.m.: Vince Amore
3:30 p.m.: Jack Miuccio
5:30 p.m.: Chicago's Rat Pack
7:15 p.m.: Tony Spavone
9 p.m.: The Bronx Wanderers
Sunday, June 21
Noon: Sunday Mass
1 p.m.: Johnny Maggio
2:30 p.m.: Martino & Lenzi
4:30 p.m.: Gigolo Johnny Lounge
6 p.m.: The Cast of Jersey Boys
7 p.m.: The Bronx Wanderers
Centerstage Reviewer: Ben Rubenstein