49th Annual Italian Festival
The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Chapter of UNICO, in collaboration with St. Bartholomew’s Church and St. Bartholomew’s Academy, is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of the 49th Annual Italian Festival. This vibrant celebration of community, culture, and culinary delights is set to take place from September 1st to September 4th, 2023, at the St. Bartholomew the Apostle Roman Catholic Church located at 2032 Westfield Ave in Scotch Plains.
The festival has been a beloved tradition since 1974, honoring San Nicola di Bari, the patron saint of the town of Montazzoli, Italy. Over the Labor Day weekend, residents from Scotch Plains, Fanwood, and surrounding communities come together to revel in the festivities, creating cherished memories that span generations.
This year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable event, uniting attendees in a celebration of Italian heritage. A wide-range of attractions await guests, including captivating live music, exhilarating amusement rides, family-friendly game booths, and, of course, a tantalizing array of delectable Italian cuisine.
Beyond the excitement and entertainment, the festival serves as a means to raise funds for various local scholarships and community events organized by SPF UNICO and St. Bartholomew’s. One of the festival’s most anticipated fundraisers is the renowned Super 50/50 raffle, which amassed over $63,000 last year. The winners of this raffle will be announced during the festival’s grand finale on Monday, September 4th, at 8:00p.m.
The four-day extravaganza would not be possible without the dedication and support of numerous volunteers and sponsors. From managing ticket sales to overseeing game booths and everything in between, the festival relies on the generosity and commitment of community members. Anyone interested in volunteering or sponsorships is encouraged to visit the festival’s official website at sbuitalianfestival.com.
This year’s festival schedule and featured musical acts are as follows:
- Friday, Sept. 1, 4:30pm-10:30pm.
- 7pm: Wolf Creek – Performing country, southern, & classic rock.
- Saturday, Sept. 2, 4:30pm-10:30pm.
- 5pm: Italian Mass at St. Bartholomew Church.
- 6pm: Mike Aromando and the Metropolitan Italian Strolling Band – Performing traditional Italian Music.
- 7pm: The Jersey Jukebox – Performing hits from the 50’s to the 80’s.
- Sunday, Sept. 3, 4:30pm-10:30pm.
- 7pm: The Broadcasters – Performing classic rock.
- Monday, Sept 4, 3pm-8pm.
- 5pm: Jimmy and the Parrots – Performing Jimmy Buffet’s greatest hits.
- 8pm: Super 50/50 raffle drawing.
Scotch Plains-Fanwood UNICO, St. Bartholomew’s Church, and St. Bartholomew’s Academy invite everyone to join in the celebration of the 49th Annual Italian Festival. Let us come together, embrace the rich heritage of Italy, raise funds for the community, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
