THE LABORERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION of North America Local 1329 will be the signature sponsor for the 13th annual Italian Fest set for Aug. 17 in downtown Iron Mountain. From left are Tony Alessandrini of LiUNA; Amber Pipp, Downtown Development Authority event coordinator; and Geno Alessandrini of LiUNA.

IRON MOUNTAIN — The Downtown Development Authority has announced that Laborers’ International Union of North America, or LiUNA, Local 1329 will be the signature sponsor for the 13th annual Italian Fest.

“Italian Fest is one of the major fundraiser events for the DDA, and without a signature sponsor, the success of this event would not be possible. LiUNA Local 1329 is investing directly in the revitalization and vibrancy of Downtown Iron Mountain by sponsoring Italian Fest,” said Amber Pipp, DDA events coordinator.

Other local businesses continue to support Italian Fest with sponsorships of many levels. This year, thanks to children’s area sponsor CCI Systems, ages 12 and younger will be admitted to the event free. They can enjoy a number of family-friendly activities throughout the event, as well as the free children’s area from noon to 3 p.m., with inflatable bounce houses, face painting and balloon animals.

The 2019 Italian Fest gold sponsors include First National Bank & Trust, The Tourism Association of the Dickinson County Area, Northern Interstate Bank and The John Fornetti Dental Center.

Tadych’s Family Market again will sponsor the Italian Dinner Toss and Super One Foods returns as sponsor of the Grape Stomp. The Mountain, Frog Country and Radio Now also will provide advertising sponsorship for the event.

“Thank you again to all of the generous sponsors of Italian Fest for supporting downtown and helping us to continue this great event,” Pipp said.

The event still needs a music sponsor.

The 13th annual Italian Fest will be noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17, in the city parking lot at the intersection of East A and Iron Mountain streets. Tickets are $8 at the gate, with all proceeds benefiting the Iron Mountain DDA.

More information on sponsorships and full event details can be found at the DDA’s website, www.downtownironmountain.com.

The DDA’s mission is to create a vibrant downtown in Iron Mountain by promoting economic growth through organizing community events, attracting new businesses and advancing the beautification and historic preservation within the district.