Italian Street Festival kicks off its 36th celebration in Indianapolis

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Italian Street Festival has made its return to Indianapolis after missing out in 2020. This year the celebration is happening in August instead of the usual timing in the second week of June.

The festival’s publicity manager, Kay Feeney-Caito, says fans may notice some changes, but one thing they’ll be familiar with is plenty of Italian food options. Thousands of meatballs, Italian sausages, pasta and more will make up more than 25 dishes and drinks for visitors to try.

“We really spared nothing with regard to how we put on the event and mirroring what people know and love year after year,” Feeney-Caito said.

A difference she believes fans will be looking forward to is more of a variety in this year’s live entertainment.

“We have expanded by adding a second stage,” she said.

Also new, the Indianapolis Opera Company is going to be singing as a part of the festival parade with the Italian Heritage Society of Indianapolis and Knights of Columbus.

“Just seeing when that park is full and people are digging into a big plate of spaghetti and people are smiling, laughing and just enjoying themselves,” Feeney Caito said just ahead of the Italian Street Festival kick-off.

“We are so excited to have it back.”

All Indiana’s Randall Newsome also caught up with Lisa Meister, whose family started the festival 30 years ago.

Click here for more information on the 2021 Italian Street Festival.

Location: Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 520 Stevens Street – Indianapolis

  • Happening Friday Aug.13- Saturday Aug.14, 2021
  • 5 p.m. – 11 p.m.
  • Free admission and parking
  • Food tickets are cash only