Drum roll please…the Italian Festival is back! 

 Now, some of you might remember the Italian Festival and some of you might not, so we’ll do a quick refresher course and then talk about this weekend’s big event.

First begun by the Marnell family 17 years ago at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, the Italian Festival was a locals’ favorite, attracting thousands of people over the course of the two-day event. For a decade, the Marnell family Italian Festival was the talk of the town. Now, they’ve brought it back at the M Resort – with a few added twists.

Our Italian Festival weekend is all about food, fun and entertainment for the entire family. (By the way, admission is free!) Here’s a rundown of what you can expect.

  A Feast for the Senses

Stroll through our outdoor piazza and treat yourself to authentic Italian dishes like calzones, pizza, sausage and pepper sandwiches and various specialties prepared by local restaurants and our very own world-renowned chefs. We’ll also have over-the-top desserts like cheesecake, cannoli, biscotti, Italian ices and the ever-popular fried dough.

For the Bambinos
We have face painting, colorful balloon art, airbrushed tattoos and roaming stilt walkers – not to mention great live entertainment by Louis Prima Jr. on the main stage at 3, 5 and 7 pm Saturday and Sunday.

Grape Stomp
You can check out your favorite local radio and TV personalities as they compete during one of our Grape Stomping Competitions on Sunday at 2 pm.  We also have public contests throughout both days.

Spaghetti Eating Contests
If clearing your plate comes easy, save room for spaghetti and put your skills to the test at our Spaghetti Eating Contest. Kids and adults can sign up at our festival information booth.

Bocce Ball Tournaments
If a true competition is more your style, sign up for our bocce ball tournaments or free play hours.

 Farmer’s Market
Authentic Italian cuisine can only be achieved with the freshest of ingredients. Shop Italian-style at the open air Farmer’s Market and take home delicious fruits and vegetables.

Here’s a recap for the most important information.

The Details
This Saturday & Sunday, October 17 & 18
11 am to 9 pm
M Resort’s Villaggio Del Sole Outdoor Piazza
FREE Admission
Purchase tickets for food (no cash at the booths) both inside and outside on the piazza.

Hope we see you there!