07/10/2023
The 16th annual Ulster County Italian American Festival at the Rondout Waterfront in Kingston on Sunday, October 8th, from 12 PM - 8 PM, bringing authentic Italian food, wine, music, culture, and entertainment to the Hudson Valley.
Presented by the Ulster Italian American Foundation, the one-day family-friendly festival features live music on two stages, dozens of food vendors, a spaghetti eating contest, cooking demonstrations, children's activities, many photo opportunities such as David, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italian street scene and more.
"The Italian Festival has become a beloved tradition in Ulster County, giving locals and visitors alike a chance to experience the sights, sounds, tastes, and culture of Italy," said festival organizer Anthony Tampone. "From the food to the music to the entertainment, it's a full day of Italian fun for the whole family."
Musical highlights include jazz great Louis Prima Jr. and the Witnesses headlining the main stage in TR Gallo Park. Other acts include the Vince Chiarelli Band, Ars Choralis featuring tenor Andrew Hoben performing beloved Italian classics, The Leonisa Ardizzone Quartet, and Michael Del Tribute to the Rat Pack. A second stage on East Strand, managed by the O+ Festival, will feature Francesca Hoffman, Brazilian Jazz by Benji Kaplan and Rita Figueiredo, M'Bollo, Pulso de Barro, and Studio Stu & the Rhythm Method.
Also this year; an Italian Cultural Center in the Maritime Barn, featuring ravioli & pasta demonstration, language lessons, stories from our local Italian Americans, and videos showcasing the beauty of Italy. The always-popular spaghetti eating contest takes place at 1:30 PM.
This Festival is made possible in part by a grant from the City of Kingston and the federal American Rescue Plan Act and our sponsors. Please visit our website to learn more.
Admission to the festival is free. Shuttles will be provided from the Kingston Plaza by Hannaford Supermarket, Kingston High School parking lot off Andrew Street, and Kingston Point Beach (Handicap shuttle).