Iconic Italian Festival Returns to Hopewell Jct. For 35th Year

It's a sign of the 'unofficial' start of summer, Memorial Day Weekend.  You can finally break out those white pants and the flip flops, and get ready for all things Hudson Valley summer!

One of those 'things' that just makes it feel like summertime has been happening here in the Hudson Valley for more than 30 years. It can be classified as a staple for many in the area as part of their Memorial Day weekend festivities, and the unofficial start of summer.

I'll tell you that even when I lived about two hours away in Massachusetts, I would come out to visit family for MDW weekend just to hit this local event.

Get ready for the Joe DiMaggio Lodge 2248 Son's of Italy Italian Festival, better knows as 'the festa.'

'Festa' Returns to East Fishkill Recreation Grounds Memorial Day Weekend

The annual Italian Festival will return to the East Fishkill Rec, 392 Rt-376, Hopewell Junction NY 12533 for Memorial Day weekend, and the 35th annual gathering of it's kind.

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Running Thursday May 23rd through Sunday May 26th, the event features food and entertainment for the entire family all weekend long, and a fireworks display on Sunday night.

The Son's of Italy Italian Festival will be open Thursday and Friday 6pm to 10pm, and Saturday and Sunday 4pm to 10pm.  There will be live music Friday through Sunday, faceprinting, sand art, rides, plenty of local food vendors, and what most people visit for, the Joe Dimaggio Lodge's infamous sausage and peppers!

Admission, parking and music entertainment are always free of charge.

Sponsored by the Son's of Italy Joe DiMaggio Lodge #2248 out of Wappingers Falls, which was established back in 1971, this annual fundraiser allows 'the lodge' to help their neighbors through charitable donations, community service donations and scholarships.

You can find out about all the other Joe Dimaggio Lodge events, scholarships and opportunities here.