The 1st Annual Nevada County Italian Festival

Grass Valley, CA - The 1st Annual Nevada County Italian Festival celebrates the rich historical significance of Nevada County Italian heritage and culture while offering contemporary events and activities for today's families and lasting memories. The event will be held September 18 through 19, 2010 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley, CA.

The 1st annual Italian festival will host several great Italian bands and entertainers. Kicking off the festival on Saturday, September 18th on the main stage is Chris Gardner, one of the top Dean Martin Tribute Artist/ Impersonators in the world. From the moment Chris takes the stage dressed in his trademark vintage tuxedo with the ever-present cocktail, Chris wows the audience with his singing & comedy, Dean Martin mannerisms and dead-on vocal renditions.

Other entertainment acts scheduled for the weekend include: Frank Ricci who has starred opposite many famous celebrities such as Tony Bennett, Wayne Newton, Don Rickles, Louis Prima, Tammy Wynette and dozens more, the Italian Ricco Dancers, The Italica Band Company, the Great Morgani strolling accordionist, and the Bambino Dancers. Chef demonstrations will include The Amazing SakaBozzo brothers who have cooked in Japan, Canada, Florida and numerous other festivals and events.

They are also the authors of the cook- book "Any Bozzo Can Cook" and we guarantee you will learn a trick or two! The festival will feature more than 15 food and craft booths. There will be lots of games and activities for young children, as well as a Bocce Ball Tournament for both the experienced and novice players. Some of the mouthwatering dishes to be served include: Toffinelli Fried Calamari, Lazy Dog Italian ice and gelato, Goombas’ pizza and calzone, 5 Mile House Italian steak, pork and eggplant, and Christopher Deli’s chicken cannelloni, eggplant parmesan, and cannoli.

Raw pasta, Italian cheeses, olive oils, tapenade, flags, totes, ceramic plaques, T-shirts, jewelry, and homemade aprons are just some of the specialty food and gift items available for purchase at the Arts and Crafts booths.

To learn more about each of these events and all the other activities such as food vendors, arts and crafts, the wine and heritage tent, children's activities, Bocce Ball tournament and other featured events visit www.nevadacountyitalianfestival.com