Hey Mambo! Mambo Italiano!

This weekend has always been one of my favorite weekends in Milwaukee because it's Festa Italiana.   To me, Festa Italiana means one thing.  Four nights of FIREWORKS!!  Fireworks are a pretty big deal for me, so obviously I am a happy camper.

The fest itself costs $13.00 for entrance, a fee I find to be slightly high, but I am willing to pay.  Once inside the Summerfest grounds, you are greeted by a large replica of the Statue of David and surrounded by every other cliche Italo-Americano thing you can think of.  Cannoli, Gelato, Lambrusco,  you name it, this fest has it.

A popular thing to eat at Festa is an arrancini.  Arrancini are rice balls with meat and cheese in the center.  They are served with sauce.  In the words of Joey Tribbiani - rice, good; meat, good; cheese, GOOOOOD. Prior to attending Festa, I have rarely seen these delicious treats in the US.  They are EVERYWHERE at Festa.

The line-up for musical entertainment at Festa Italiana can be hit or miss depending on what you like.  This year they had the Monkees (yes! the hit band from the 80's), a Fleetwood Mac cover band, many Rat Pack types, and Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.  They also have stages with fashion shows, cannoli eating contests, and cooking shows.  I was unable to see the cooking shows this year but they looked pretty cool, so I hope to go next year.  Festa Italiana also features a large carnival ride section so for those who are brave can dare the zipper or the tilt-a-whirl.

What I like best about Festa Italiana is two things.  Number one the people.  The volunteers and coordinators for this festival are so gracious and happy to share their culture with you.  Second, is the cultural aspect.  There are italian dancers, and tents with all kinds of educational and cultural material.  I believe they really want this festival to be about learning.

Finally, I have to touch on the fireworks again.  Are they as awesome as the Big Bang on July 3rd... no, but they are pretty fantastic and they are EVERY NIGHT.  Thursday through Sunday there are fireworks at 10:15.

This year, I learned that there is a gondola on the lake, that you can ride in during the festival.  You can specifically rent it so you will be on the gondola during the fireworks.  How romantic.  How awesome... sign me up next year for sure!