The Columbus Italian Festival brings a taste of Italy to the city this weekend

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — The Columbus Italian Festival transforms the capital city into a vibrant celebration of Italian culture this weekend, beginning Friday evening at Saint John the Baptist Church in Italian Village.

“Right now we are putting the finishing touches on everything so that this festival can open in just a few hours at 5 p.m.,” said Joe Ingrassia of the Columbus Piave Club. “We have vendors sorting out the last of their inventory. The pizza is preparing to go into the oven and begin serving. You can smell the scent of the sausage and peppers. We’re ready to go.”

The festival, which offers a weekend of Italian cuisine, music and family-friendly activities, takes place Fridays from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., Saturdays from 12:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. and Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m . Admission is $10 at the door, and children under 12 are admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. A weekend pass is available for $15.

To highlight the celebration, ABC 6's Tom Bosco will serve as the parade's grand marshal on Sunday.

The parade begins at 1 p.m. in Goodale Park and features six high school marching bands, a college marching band, the Nacho Street Band, and various cars and floats.

“This is the best festival of the year in Columbus, Ohio,” Ingrassia said. “There are lots of great things for you. You can learn about Italian culture. You can learn about Saint John the Baptist Church. She is the cornerstone of the Italian community in Columbus, Ohio.”

All proceeds from the festival benefit the John the Baptist Church.