One of the region’s most anticipated summer traditions is set to return this weekend as the 48th Annual St. Paul’s Italian Festival gets underway in Erie.
The family-friendly event celebrates Italian culture with authentic food, live entertainment, traditional dancing and activities for all ages. Each year, thousands of visitors make their way to St. Paul’s Church to enjoy homemade Italian specialties and festive atmosphere.
In preparation for the festival, volunteers have spent weeks cooking and organizing thousands of servings of fan-favorite dishes. Guests can look forward to a menu packed with Italian classics, including sausage sandwiches, eggplant parmesan, pepperoni balls, pizza and a variety of traditional desserts, including cannoli.
Festival organizers have also planned specialty dinners throughout the weekend. A Pasta e Fagioli Dinner is on the menu Friday evening, followed by Italian Chicken on Saturday and Spaghetti and Meatballs on Sunday.
Beyond the food, attendees can enjoy live music performances, traditional Italian dancing and a welcoming community atmosphere that has helped make the festival a summertime staple for nearly five decades.
The St. Paul’s Italian Festival takes place on the grounds of St. Paul’s Church at West 16th and Walnut Streets in Erie, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to celebrate Italian heritage while enjoying a weekend of great food and entertainment.
Organizers invite everyone to come hungry and ready to say “mangia” as the beloved Erie tradition returns for another year.
Dining and Cooking