The one great thing about Ybor City and how it all came to be is the integral role a variety of different cultures from around the world played in shaping this historic Tampa neighborhood.
The Italian culture is one of these groups and their mark can still be seen with establishments all over the neighborhood and, for one weekend a year, Festa Italiana held in the streets of Ybor.
This year, the 15th Annual Festa Italiana goes down on the weekend of March 29 through April 1 at the Italian Club and Centennial Park in Ybor.
It all kicks off with Wines of Italy at the Italian Club on Thursday, March 29. Visit for a unique tasting experience featuring over 70 different wines from Italy as well as antipasti and deserts. General admission tickets to the Wines of Italy are $50 in advance and $60 day of. To purchase tickets, visit www.festaitalianatampa.com/winesofitaly.html.
On Saturday, March 31 the festival will host a full day of free, family-friendly activities at Centennial Park. Head out and enjoy a Bocce Ball invitational tournament, Italian food, an Italian Idol competition and a Saturday fresh market.
On Sunday, April 1, Festa Italiana will return to Centennial Park for a true taste of Italy with over 30 different Tampa restaurants and caterers, cooking demonstrations, children's activities, and live entertainment with Matt Morgan, The Fabulous Rockers, The Russo Brothers and more.
So, for a great, family-friendly time in Ybor City, check out Festa Italiana from March 29 through April 1 and celebrate everything great about Italy and Italian culture.
