The Great Italian Festival returns for its 43rd year in Downtown Reno.
The event celebrates Italian culture and traditions while bringing live music, amazing food, and family activities to Virginia Street.
“It’s a family event. Always bring the kids,” says Tony Marini, one of the event’s organizers. “My niece and nephew were down here earlier, so it’s just an awesome day, and everybody’s together.”
Marini and his family prepare sautéed artichoke and sausage at the event. I tried some, and even though I’m not an artichoke guy, it was delicious.
Marini says his booth is one of the staples of the event, along with Gino’s Flatbread and Cafe Bellini. It all started with him and his mom cooking at the first Italian Festival.
“Now, it’s just evolved into more and more and more family,” Marini says. “My son and my daughters are working here with me today. So, generations and generations are here today.”
Beyond the food, the festival offers a wine walk along the train trench and a grape stomp. Our very own Jaden Urban and Chief Photographer Jay competed in the media and celebrity contest. Jaden asked me not to mention how they did.
Darian and his family were among the festival’s attendees. He says he enjoys everything the festival has to offer.
“All the people are nice and there’s a lot of activities to do and shops to look at,” Darian says.
Darian has a message for a repeat grape stomp champion from Wadsworth.
“I’m coming for you. I’m going to get the trophy.”
Darian says his favorite food at the festival is the mushroom ravioli.
And you can’t forget about the family sauce cook-off, where you can try sauce recipes like folks from the Campanile family.
“We love tasting all the family’s pasta sauces,” says Kelly Campanile. “Even though we cook in the event we do like to try them all as well. “
Judd Campanile says the event is like one huge family.
“If you’re not Italian, come, he says. “It’s family having a good time.”
The event continues on Sunday, October 12, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Downtown Reno.
Dining and Cooking