Attendees make their way around Al Quaal Recreation Area in Ishpeming at a previous Italian Fest. (Journal photo by Justin Marietti)

ISHPEMING — When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie, it might just be Italian Fest weekend.

The St. Rocco – St. Anthony Society of Ishpeming has announced the 126th annual Ishpeming Italian Fest, which will take place on Saturday, July 26 at Al Quaal Recreation Area.

This free, family-friendly event is open to the public and will feature a variety of Italian and American foods served throughout the day.

“Italian Fest is a great event to spend time with family and friends,” said Tony Carlson, Italian Fest committee member. “There are plenty of things to do for all ages, from the kids games and the greased pole to home cooked Italian food and dancing into the evening — we have something for everyone all day.”

The festival will include live music from local and regional performers, classic games of chance, ring toss, balloon darts, a greased pole competition with a $100 prize, bingo, a giant slide and a bounce house.

But what if you’re not Italian, you might ask?

“I’d encourage everyone to come to Al Quaal,” Carlson said. “It’s a great day to enjoy homemade Italian food, play games and enjoy the live music. We like to say, ‘Everyone can be Italian for the day at Italian Fest.'”

The schedule of events is as follows:

Noon – 1:30 p.m., festivities begin

1:30 p.m., kids games begin (sawdust pile, sack race, egg toss and more)

2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Soundz of Time performs

5-7 p.m., Diamanti (from Chicago) performs

Visitors can once again enjoy homemade Italian food cooked by the Valela family, which will be sold at the society’s food booth. In addition, the following vendors will be at the festival: Teal Lake Masonic (shaved ice), Manny Mags (tacos), Jimmy Krack Korn (popcorn), Doozers (cookies), Matilda’s Ears (elephant ears), Lions Club of Ishpeming (cotton candy), Suzie Q (ice cream), Milano’s Smokehouse (brats and hot dogs), and Hyatt’s Ice Cream Bike (ice cream).

Jjustin Marietti can be reached at 906-228-2500, extension 545. His email address is jmarietti@miningjournal.net.