Now celebrating 42 years, the Italian American Association of the Township of Ocean will be holding its spectacular Italian American Festival from Wednesday, August 8 through Sunday, August 12 at the Mike Cernigliaro Fairgrounds in Joe Palaia Park, located at 200 Whalepond Road (corner of Deal Road) in beautiful Ocean Township, New Jersey. With free parking and free admission, bring the entire family for thrills, entertainment, games and food. The fun begins each evening at 5:00 pm and continues to 11:00 pm. There are hourly 50/50 drawings, with the Grand 50/50 drawn on the closing night.
This year’s Festival promises to be the best ever, with 33 food vendors selling all types of specialties from traditional sausage and peppers to pastries, zeppole and much, much more. There will be raffles, games of chance, games of skill, plus carnival rides to thrill visitors of all ages!
Each evening features live entertainment in the park’s new band shell. Opening night will have DJ music and then enjoy rock ‘n roll Jersey style, from the popular band Timepiece, as headliner for the evening. Wednesday is also a discounted ride night.
Thursday has two live acts, the Derps open the night with After the Reign bringing their country music to the stage. Friday has Mixed Nutz opening to the #1 Frankie Valli and the 4 Seasons tribute band, Lights Out, plus there will be fireworks at 9:30 pm. Saturday night will have DJ music, followed by the headliner Mama’s Boy. The final night of the festival features Lou Parisi, followed by West End Dogs playing classic rock.
Other events during the festival include hot dog, pizza and pasta eating contests, as well as performances by youth gymnastic and dance groups.
The Italian American Association of the Township of Ocean uses proceeds from the festival to provide educational scholarships to deserving students and present awards to youth-based charities, donating over $100,000 over the course of the last two years alone. So bring the family and enjoy a wonderful time while helping to ensure that the children of today will have a better tomorrow. For information visit their website at www.IAATO.com/festival.
