The Washington Italian Festival reaches a milestone this year – a decade of celebrating Italian heritage in the heart of Washington, Pennsylvania. The two‑day event takes place at the Community Pavilion, 139 S. Main St., downtown Washington, with free admission for all residents and visitors.
Kick‑off Concert
On the evening of Sept. 25, the festival opens with a concert from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. featuring the local group Shades of Time. The performance is open to the public and sets a festive tone for the weekend.
Saturday Celebration
Festivities officially begin at noon on Sept. 26. Attendees can enjoy a full schedule of music, cultural displays, vendor booths, and authentic Italian food and beverages. The day’s programming includes:
- All Day: DJ AJ Fresh spins a mix of classic and contemporary tunes while food, drink, and vendor booths line the pavilion.
- Noon: An opening ceremony featuring a blessing, an honor guard presented by the Young Marines, and the national anthem.
- 12:30 p.m.: The New Vintage Big Band provides lively swing music.
- 1:30 p.m.: Washington County Commissioner Larry Maggi presents a ceremony honoring Italian‑American veterans, recognizing their service and contributions.
- 2:00 p.m.: A musical performance by J.R. Rebelo adds a touch of contemporary Italian sound.
- 3:00 p.m.: The Allegro Dance Company showcases traditional Italian folk dances, with special guest Salvatore Guglielmo joining the troupe.
- 3:45 p.m.: Mirella the Musician entertains the crowd with a solo repertoire of Italian classics.
- 5:00 p.m.: The Washington Jazz Orchestra delivers a set of jazz standards infused with Italian flair.
- 6:30 p.m.: Street Players bring energetic street‑style performances to the pavilion.
- 7:00 p.m.: A 50/50 raffle and the Wagon of Cheer drawing give attendees a chance to win prizes while supporting festival costs.
Family‑Friendly Atmosphere
The festival is designed for families, seniors and anyone interested in Italian culture. Children can explore interactive booths, while adults sample a variety of Italian dishes, from classic pasta and pizza to regional specialties. Local businesses and cultural organizations also have a presence, offering information about Italian language classes, travel opportunities and community programs.
Community Impact
Beyond entertainment, the Washington Italian Festival serves as a platform for cultural education and community building. By highlighting the contributions of Italian‑American veterans, the event reinforces the values of service, family and faith that are central to Washington’s identity. The free admission policy ensures that all members of the community, regardless of income, can participate in the celebration.
Plan Your Visit
The pavilion is located at 139 South Main Street in downtown Washington. Parking is available in nearby municipal lots and on‑street spaces. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, especially for popular performances, and to bring reusable containers for food and beverages to support the festival’s sustainability efforts.
For the latest updates, schedule changes or additional programming, visit the festival’s official website or follow the Washington Italian Festival on social media.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
