The 81st Annual Summer Festa Picnic

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The Summer Festa Picnic is a long-standing family event held by the Society every year since its founding in 1929. The picnic brings a small piece of Italy and its traditions to central Illinois each summer. What began as a social event for Italian immigrants has evolved into the Society's major fundraiser for its two scholarship programs. Indeed, the picnic has become a major, family-centered, community event attended by hundreds of people. Join us at the Festa for food, fun, and family.

Information, Directions, and Schedule of Events

WHEN: Sunday August 8, 2010 from Noon until 7:00 p.m.

WHERE: Hickory Grove Park which is located on Hickory Grove Road [HGR]. Take Illinois State Route 40 [in the city of Peoria called Knoxville Avenue], approximately 3 miles North of NorthPoint Shopping Center. Turn right onto HGR [there is a stoplight at the intersection of Rt. 40 and HGR]. Follow the road approximately 1 mile to the fork in the road. At the fork keep to the right and you will see the Park on your left. FREE PARKING is to the right.

FOOD: Italian American Society recipies prepared by Italian American Society members: Adult and children's spaghetti meals; meatball, sausage and Italian beef sandwiches. There will also be a variety of Italian desserts including Italian Ice (granita) and pizzelles.

DRINK: Italian and domestic beer, wines, soda, juice and water.

GIFT BOOTH: A large variety of Italian t-shirts, hats, pins and other items of Italian regalia including the Society's own cook book will be available.

ADMISSION: The park is open to guests of all ages. Admission is $2 per adult at the gate. Children under 12 years old are free. Tickets will not be sold in advance.

2010 ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE (more may be added)

12:00 to 1:00 Peoria Area Accordion Band

12:00 to 7:00 Auto display and raffle by the River Valley Drifters Car Club. Tickets will be available for the club's raffle of a 1994 Mustang Convertible. Proceeds benefit the Children's Hospital.

12:30 to 5:00 Kid's Corner including two inflatable attractions, Clowns, games, and more!!!

1:00 to 1:15 Italian American Society 2010 Scholarship Awards

1:00 to 7:00 Fun Italian and contemporary music for dancing and entertainment presented by master of ceremonies Roberto Dietrich of Acoustic Dreams & Lightbeams

2:00 to 2:30 Children's Spaghetti-Eating Contest: three age groups (4-6, 7-9, and 10-12) with a prize for all contestants!

2:30 Bocce Ball Tournaments for both Adults and Children. No Entry Fee!!! BRING YOUR BOCCE SETS

Scopa Lessons and Tournament with prizes for winners.

DEMONSTRATIONS

From 1:00 to 5:00 Bocce Ball demonstrations and lessons by the Society.

DISCOUNTS

If you have a Church group or other youth group of 15 or more, admission will be waived. Contact Dave at (309) 383-4684 for arrangements.