What We Do

West Michigan Italian Festival is more than just a festival; it’s a mission to celebrate Italian heritage while fostering community engagement and supporting local businesses.

We strive to:

Preserve Culture

Highlight Italy’s music, art, and cuisine

Build Community

Create a welcoming space for all to gather and celebrate

Empower Local Businesses

Provide a platform for local artisans and vendors to thrive.

Join us on July 25 and 26, 2025, from 11 AM to 9 PM at Tanger Outlets

A Celebration of Italian Culture and Community

Agenda

Thursday

Set Up

Friday

  • 11:00am Festa Starts
  • 12:00pm Blessing of the Festival led by Fr.Peter Damon-St Paul
  • 11:00am-9:00pm Bocce Practice
  • 4:00pm Leo’s Raffle
  • 5pm-9pm Live Entertainment – Pino Marrelli
  • Kids Corner – Arts and Crafts, games and volunteer adults through out Festival w/ our Sister Cities

Happy hour all day, $5.00 for ALL Drinks at Festa’s Beer/Wine Garden!

Social Drinks available in Russo’s. 7 Taps to choose from.

Saturday

  • 11:00am Festa Opens
  • 11:00am-9pm The Peter Secchia Memorial Bocce Cup  
  • 3pm Spaghetti Eating Contest. Sign up here!
  • 4:00pm Leo’s Raffle
  • 4:30-5:30pm Comedy Show
  • 6pm-9pm Live Entertainment – The Sheer Bliss Trio
  • Kids Corner – Arts and Crafts, games and volunteer adults through out Festival w/ our Sister Cities

Happy hour all day, $5.00 for ALL Drinks at Festa’s Beer/Wine Garden!

Social Drinks available in Russo’s. 7 Taps to choose from.

Live Italian Music and Entertainment

Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of Italy with live music performances throughout the day. From traditional Italian melodies to lively modern tunes, our festival stage brings together talented artists who capture the spirit of Italian culture. Dance, sing along, and experience the energy that makes Italian music so beloved.

Wine and Beer Garden Featuring Italian Imports

Savor the taste of Italy with a selection of fine wines and refreshing beers in our exclusive wine and beer garden. Featuring authentic Italian imports, this is the perfect spot to relax, mingle, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the festival. Raise a glass and toast to a day of culture and community!

Authentic Italian Food from Local Vendors

Indulge in a culinary journey through Italy with a wide array of delicious dishes prepared by local vendors. From creamy pasta to wood-fired pizza and decadent desserts, every bite is a celebration of authentic Italian flavors. Don’t forget to try regional specialties and handmade treats for a truly memorable dining experience.

Artisan Market and Kids’ Activities

Explore the creativity of local artisans at our vibrant market, featuring handcrafted goods, unique crafts, and Italian-inspired items. It’s the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs or gifts. For families, we offer engaging kids’ activities to ensure fun for attendees of all ages. There’s something for everyone to enjoy!

The Peter Secchia Memorial Cup

Get ready to roll! The Peter Secchia Memorial Cup is your chance to showcase your bocce ball skills, enjoy friendly competition, and celebrate Italian tradition. Gather your team and compete for bragging rights (and maybe a prize or two)!
  • Entry Fee: $25 per person
  • Team Size: 2-4
  • When & Where: Tanger outlet July 25th and 26th 11:00 am
  • Prizes & Fun: Great competition, community spirit, and plenty of Italian festival excitement!
(Kids bocce tournament free!)

Friday will be a practice/play/learn day for anyone interested and the actual competition would be on Saturday. Tournament starts at 11 am. Whether you’re a seasoned bocce player or a first-timer, this tournament is all about having fun and embracing the spirit of Italy. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting event!

Thank you to the Italian American Club of Kalamazoo for running the tournament! When you sign up you will be automatically be added to list and invoiced with in 30 days.

Be A Part of the Celebration!

Partner with the West Michigan Italian Festival and showcase your brand to thousands of attendees while supporting a vibrant cultural event. Sponsorships offer unmatched visibility, community engagement, and a chance to align your business with a celebration of heritage and tradition.

Join the Fun – Volunteer With Us!

Join the West Michigan Italian Festival as a volunteer and help bring this incredible celebration to life! From assisting with event setup to welcoming guests and supporting vendors, volunteers play a vital role in making Fiesta Italia an unforgettable experience. This is your chance to engage with the community, celebrate Italian heritage, and be part of the excitement—all while having fun!