CANTON, Ohio — Stark County's 35th annual Italian American Festival has returned to the place where it all started, running all weekend long in the revitalized downtown Canton area known as Centennial Plaza.
"We wanted to make it as authentic as we could and moving it back to where it all began was one way to honor the legacy to the best of our ability," event organizer Courtney Storey told 3News, explaining that construction of the renovated area had forced the event to alternate locations in the past.
With the festival's return to downtown Canton, the group can continue funding scholarships for Stark County high school graduates, many of whom maintain their connections with the festival long after they've finished their college degrees.
Over its 35-year run, the Stark County Italian American Festival has given out more than $200,000 in college scholarships to deserving recipients of Italian descent. Courtney is one of those past recipients, having graduated from Jackson High School in 2016 and now helping continue the festival tradition, much to the delight of Canton's large Italian American community.
The events kicked off on July 7 with a breakfast honoring this year's scholarship recipients at Gervasi Vineyards, hosted by Perry High School's storied former theatre director Louis Mattachione.
From there, the festival picks up starting at 4 p.m. on Friday, offering a weekend full of free access to live entertainment, good company, and excellent food.
"People who come out to the festival can expect a strong celebration of culture and heritage, an unrivaled bocce tournament, the return of the festival’s casino, rides, live music and entertainment, authentic Italian food and baked goods and a great time coming together!" Courtney said.
There is no charge to come to the festival, which runs from 4-11 p.m. on Friday, noon-11 p.m. on Saturday, and noon-8 p.m. on Sunday in Centennial Plaza on 330 Court Ave. NW in Canton.