The 17th-annual Italian Fest, sponsored by LiUNA Local 1329, runs from noon to 11 p.m. in Iron Mountain’s downtown parking lot across from Dickinson County Library.

The festivities kick off at noon with an opening ceremony by Mike Izzo and family.

“Once again, they will be singing ‘God Bless America’ in Italian for us,” said Kenzie Williamsen, Iron Mountain Downtown Development Authority event coordinator.

This year’s festival promises a full slate of cuisine, entertainment and activities with an Italian flair for all ages.

(Jim Paul/Daily News photo) Jan and Gino entertain the early crowd at the 2023 Italian Fest in Iron Mountain. This year’s event includes music from Jan and Gino; Norton, Chartier & Co.; and Nashville country artist Andy Gibbons with Bad Axe Rodeo.

The DDA is excited to be able to offer new features at the 2024 celebration thanks to generous sponsors, said Williamsen.

Multi State Realty and First National Bank & Trust have partnered to provide free admission tickets to area veterans.

“Veteran partnerships are a priority with our company,” said Multi State Realty co-owner and veteran Kevin Melsha. “We have a big veteran community here, it’s very important we continue to honor and recognize them for their service and sacrifices.”

Multi State Realty associate broker and certified military relocation specialist Lucas Davidson explained that for the last several years the DDA events committee has discussed ways to incorporate area veterans. “This will be our test run,” said Davidson. “We will gauge if there is enough interest to possibly do more next year.”

Tickets are available at the Dickinson County Veteran Service Office in Kingsford. Tickets can be used for free admission to either Italian Fest or Oktoberfest.

Williamsen added that they hope this gives veterans the opportunity to relax, enjoy, and be part of one of the community’s downtown events.

This year’s entertainment, sponsored by the Tourism Association of the Dickinson County Area, features three popular groups taking the downtown stage.

From 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., the local duo, Jan and Gino will warm up the crowd. The variety classic rock band, Norton, Chartier & Co. of the local area will perform from 3:30 to 7 p.m.

Nashville country artist Andy Gibbons will join Bad Axe Rodeo to close out the evening from 7:45 to 10:45 p.m.

“I’m excited to see that party when Andy’s on stage,” said Williamsen.

Attendees can also check out two performances by the UP Dance Academy in between musical sets.

Wine enthusiasts can enjoy the tastings with Michael Lo Duca from Lo Duca Wine, sampling over eight varieties of his family’s wines, including the newly introduced Italian Sangrias with fruit puree.

The DDA has partnered with Oddfellows to offer a variety of non-alcohol beer and wine options.

Crispigna’s Italian Market will return with its authentic dishes, along with Dulce Nulla Gourmet Desserts providing gluten-free items and desserts.

The Curious Pig has been added as a vendor this year. “They will be putting a slight Italian twist on their menu items to bring something a little different,” noted Williamsen.

The DDA has also brought back the popular Grape Stomp and Italian Dinner Toss. They have changed up the Grape Stomp, sponsored by Super One Foods, to accommodate more participants.

“We will have smaller buckets — one person will stomp the grapes and the other will be the hand holder,” said Williamsen.

The Italian Dinner Toss is sponsored by Tadych’s Marketplace Foods.

The fun, family friendly competitions will start about 2:30 p.m.

Visitors can also explore the Sassoferrato Sister City Exhibit, organized by Dickinson Homes and Slumberland Furniture, to discover the cultural ties between Iron Mountain and its sister city in Italy.

The children’s area, sponsored by First National Bank & Trust, has expanded its hours from noon to 9:15 p.m. Kids can enjoy the bounce houses and other activities from noon to 6 p.m.

After the inflatables come down, a tent and projector will be set up to show the Disney film, “Cars 2.” The movie will begin at about 7:30 p.m.

“Our goal is to keep the children entertained so the adults are able to enjoy the closing band,” said Williamsen, adding all activities are free for the kids.

Area high school student volunteers will provide face painting.

“We are happy to be able to sponsor the children’s area again with the great new additions this year,” said Mick Gayan, First National Bank & Trust Marketing Director.

At about 7 p.m., Dr. John Fornetti Dental Center will be present to hand out special light-up foam wands to the kids.

“I believe some of the adults may be able to sneak a few away, while they enjoy the band that evening,” said Sara Wentzel, marketing and recruitment director at Dr. John Fornetti Dental Center.

Wentzel will also have a little surprise for those dining the Italian cuisine. “I will be walking around trying to sell raffle tickets and handing out after-dinner mints,” she said.

“Thanks to First National Bank & Trust, having something for the kids to keep entertained and safe allows the parents the ability to also be present, but also relax,” Wentzel added.

Williamsen noted that she is still in need of about eight 21 or older volunteers for the festival. Those who donate their time will receive free admission, drink tickets, and food vouchers.

Admission is $10 for adults and children 13 and older, free for those children 12 and younger at the door.

The Italian Fest is made possible through the support of sponsors including Liuna Local 1329, Tourism Association of the Dickinson County Area, First National Bank & Trust, The John Fornetti Dental Center, Northern Interstate Bank, 41 Lumber, Dickinson Homes, Frog 101.5 WJNR, Danielson Insurance Agency, Spiro’s Downtown Restaurant, and Slumberland Furniture.

For more information go to https://downtownironmountain.com/italian-fest.

Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772 ext. 241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.

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