3 Days Of

Family Fun

The Maryland Italian Festival is a place where families create memories together. From the excitement of a colorful midway filled with carnival rides and games to spectacular nightly fireworks, there is family fun around every corner.

Young visitors will delight in meeting Mario and Luigi, having their faces painted, and watching the timeless antics of Pulcinella, Italy’s beloved version of the classic Punch and Judy puppet show. Throughout the festival grounds, colorful roving stilt walkers surprise and entertain guests with laughter, music, and larger-than-life performances.

Families can stroll among talented street chalk artists, enjoy live music and entertainment, and experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of Italy together. On Sunday, youngsters are invited to join lively Tarantella dance lessons, learning the joyful steps of Italy’s most famous folk dance in a fun and engaging setting.

Whether you're winning prizes on the midway, enjoying a thrilling ride, watching fireworks light up the night sky, meeting beloved characters, or dancing in the piazza, the Maryland Italian Festival offers an unforgettable weekend of family fun, Italian culture, and lasting memories for all ages.

Festival Highlights

Carnival Rides and Midway
Stiltwalker
Mario & Luigi
Balloon
Face painting
Fireworks
Piccolo Teatro
Bocce Tournament
Special Olympics Bocce Tournament
Pulcinella Puppet Shows
Tarantella Lessons for Children
Street Chalk Artists
Balloon Artists
Stilt Walkers

Live Entertainment

The Avena Maryland Italian Festival comes alive with music, culture, and entertainment throughout all three days of the celebration. Enjoy near-continuous performances by nationally recognized Italian-American entertainers, acclaimed regional artists, and beloved local performers.

Our Main Stage features an exciting lineup of concerts, tribute acts, traditional Italian music, contemporary favorites, and crowd-pleasing performances that will have audiences singing, dancing, and celebrating all weekend long. Guests may enjoy performances from the amphitheater's open seating areas or elevate their experience with reserved Stage-Front Pods and VIP Villas, available for a single day or the entire festival weekend.

View the Entertainment Schedule

Reserve Your VIP Stage Seating

More Than Music

Entertainment can be found throughout every corner of the festival grounds. Be sure to experience:

• Strolling musicians performing throughout Heritage Village
• Traditional Pulcinella puppet performances
• Fascinating talks on Italian history, culture, and heritage
• Interactive Tarantella dance lessons for children in the Piccolo Teatro
• Live cooking demonstrations and wine presentations on the Liberatore Cooking Stage

Click here to view Piccolo Teatro Schedule

Whether you're enjoying a headline concert, discovering a new performer, learning a traditional dance, or watching a chef recreate the flavors of Italy, there's always something happening at the Avena Maryland Italian Festival.

Highlights

Stage Entertainment
Piccolo Teatro Performances
Strolling Musicians
Pulcinella Puppet Shows
Cooking Demonstrations
Wine Demonstrations
Tarantella Lessons for Children

Now That's Italian!

The Maryland Italian Festival is more than a carnival—it's a celebration of the traditions, artistry, music, craftsmanship, and family values that have defined Italian culture for centuries. Around every corner, you'll discover experiences that transport you to the heart of Italy while honoring the rich heritage of Iatalian-Americans.

🎭 Piccolo Teatro
Enjoy intimate performances celebrating the rich traditions of Italian music, storytelling, and theater.

🎶 Strolling Musicians
Encounter talented performers throughout the festival grounds playing beloved Italian melodies and crowd favorites.

🎭 Pulcinella Puppet Shows
Experience the classic Neapolitan puppet character whose adventures have entertained Italian families for centuries.

📜 Italian History Talks
Discover the people, events, inventions, and achievements that shaped Italy's remarkable contribution to world civilization.

💃 Tarantella Lessons for Children
Young visitors can learn Italy's most famous folk dance through fun, interactive lessons led by experienced instructors. 6- to 13-year-olds should come to the Piccolo Teatro at 11:30 AM on Sunday to join in. Sign up here to reserve your spot.

🎨 Street Chalk Artists
Watch incredible works of art emerge before your eyes as artists transform pavement into colorful masterpieces inspired by Italy.

🔥 Glassblowing Demonstrations
See skilled artisans demonstrate the techniques and craftsmanship that have made Italian glassmaking famous around the world.

🏛️ Roman Triumphal Arch
Walk beneath a stunning recreation inspired by the monumental arches of Ancient Rome.

🗼 Leaning Tower of Pisa
Capture memorable photos with one of Italy's most recognizable landmarks.

🏟️ The Colosseum
Visit a recreation of Rome's iconic amphitheater and one of the greatest symbols of Italian history.

⛲ Italian Fountains
Relax and gather around beautiful fountain displays inspired by the famous piazzas of Italy.

👨‍🍳 Cooking Demonstrations
Learn authentic recipes, techniques, and family traditions from chefs showcasing the flavors of Italy. (link to Italian Cuisine Galore)

🍷 Wine Demonstrations & Tastings
Explore Italy's celebrated wine culture through educational presentations and tastings for adults.

🛍️ Italian Market
Shop for imported specialties, artisan goods, handcrafted gifts, and unique Italian products.

🎯 Bocce Courts
Try your hand at Italy's beloved pastime or watch friendly competition throughout the festival.

🍄 Mario & Luigi Meet-and-Greets
Families can meet everyone's favorite Italian brothers for photos and fun.

🎤 Main Stage Entertainment
Enjoy continuous performances featuring Italian-American entertainers, singers, dancers, and cultural acts.

🍝 Italian Food Court
Savor the aromas and flavors of Italy with authentic dishes, regional specialties, traditional desserts, and family recipes prepared fresh throughout the festival.

Whether you're celebrating your own Italian roots or simply embracing the culture, the Maryland Italian Festival offers a weekend filled with discovery, tradition, and authentic Italian experiences.

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