One of Northern Kentucky’s most popular festivals is back and livelier than ever

Craving pasta? You’re in luck—Italianfest is back in Newport this weekend. Bring the family to Riverboat Row from June 8-11 to enjoy food, live music and local history. 

For more than 30 years, Newport has celebrated the legacy of Italian heritage in Northern Kentucky with Italianfest. This year, the free, family-friendly festival is expected to draw more than 120,000 visitors to Riverboat Row over the four-day celebration. 

Local vendors at the festival will include Gabby’s Cafe, Pagano’s Italian Grill and Royal Roman’s Roadhouse. After filling up on pasta and meatballs, visitors can grab a cannoli and Italian ice and watch a live performance. 

Highlights of the festival’s musical lineup include Louis Prima, Jr. and his band The Witnesses, performing at 9 p.m. Thursday and Saturday nights, the Four C Notes and the Naked Karate Girls. The festival will kick off Thursday at 5 p.m. with a performance from the Pete Wagner Band, which has played every Italianfest since the festival started in 1991. 

There will also be a selection of kid-friendly puppet shows, rides and games, with a $10 wristband pass available for a full day of play.