Little Italy Fest & Gelato Fest Taylor Street Chicago 2019

August 14, 2019August 14, 2019 TC 1940 Views 0 Comments

Taylor Street is one of the most historic neighborhoods in Chicago. From the late 1800s to about the 1950s, this area was a hub for Italian immigrants to settle and establish their families. It soon became Chicago’s “Official” Little Italy.

Chicago’s Little Italy Fest-Taylor Street celebrates the great history of the neighborhood by celebrating the rich culture of the generations of Italians who settled there decades ago. Fabulous food from award-winning area restaurants, several stages of continuous family entertainment, quality merchandise from Italy and colorful cultural attractions make this event one of the most popular of the summer.

Sponsored by Little Italy Chicago Neighborhood Association and Produced by Ron Onesti of Onesti Entertainment, Owner of The Arcada Theatre in St. Charles, Little Italy Fest-West in Addison and Festa Pasta Vino on Oakley Avenue in Chicago, who was also born on Taylor Street.

Location:
ON TAYLOR ST. BETWEEN ASHLAND AND ADA ST. IN CHICAGO, IL

Hours:
THURSDAY: 5PM-10PM
FRIDAY: 5PM-10PM
SATURDAY: NOON-10PM
SUNDAY: NOON-9PM

Admission:
An $8 DOLLAR SUGGESTED DONATION PER PERSON TO HELP FUND FUTURE TAYLOR ST. FESTAS

Little Italy Festa Lineup:

Thursday – Arcada Stage

5PM: Ribbon cutting ceremony with special guest, Alderman Jason Ervin.

5:30PM-7:30PM – The Jersey Girls: 3 unbelievable young ladies from Europe…”The Jersey Girls” performing all the hits from the girls bands of the 50s and 60s, and some current pop hits as well! They are gorgeous and incredibly talented, a true dance party!

8PM-10PM – Boy Band Review: The best Boy Band Tribute Show in the country! Bringing full production lights, video, choreography, harmonies and energy, Boy Band Review has captured the hearts of fans with their boyband shows that transport audience members back in time to the days of frosted tips and hunky frontmen professing their undying love.

Thursday – Little Italy Library Party Stage

6PM-7:30PM – Frankie B: Frankie B, a young singer, songwriter and musician from suburban Chicago, has been singing since before she began to walk. She picked up the guitar for the first time at the age of 8 and has been in front of audiences ever since. Frankie and her band put on a high energy show that is fun for people of all ages!

8PM-10PM – Diva Montell: “The Real Thing” Brazilian Dance Trio!

Thursday – Piazza Dimaggio Stage

5PM-6:15PM – Johnny Maggio: Velvet-voiced Johnny Maggio is an industry professional, with soaring vocals, powerful soul, and the warmth of timeless entertainers who connect with every person in the audience, even if for just one moment in time.

6:30PM-8PM – The Jan and Gino Show: They perform all of the hits that you enjoy including 1940’s swing, smooth jazz, oldies, country, classic rock, latin rock, along with hits from the 70’s and 80’s. Having been born in Italy, Gino sings many beautiful Italian songs made famous by both Italian artists as well as our own American artists such as Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, and others.

8:15PM-9:45PM – Austin Giorgio: Austin Giorgio is a 22 year old best known for his charismatic stage presence, warm tone and ability to connect with all ages. Giorgio’s voice pays homage to his roots such as Frank Sinatra, and Dean Martin yet his production reflects the tastes of modern music.

Thursday – Chiaruggi Stage

6PM-9:30PM – Joe Martino: The Italian American music of Accordionist, Electronic Keyboardist and Singer Joe Martino brings you an authentic Italian American experience. From Frank Sinatra, to Andrea Bocelli, Pavarotti and beyond, the Classic Italian American Entertainment from Joe Martino sets the mood for all occasions.

Thursday – Xplosive! Stage

5PM-10PM – Xplosive Sounds Old School Dance Party: Xplosive Sounds has been entertaining the masses for over 15 years, and will keep you dancing all night!

Other Notable Thursday Attractions

Throughout the day, internet sensations Uncle Louie & Carlo will be Emceeing on the Arcada Stage and will be at their booth selling merchandise and entertaining the masses with their comedy!

Friday Entertainment

Friday – Arcada Stage

5PM-6PM – “A Salute to Barbra Streisand” with Christina Grace Amato: She has been singing all her life, and has never been shy on the stage! Come and enjoy her Vegas-Style show as she tributes one of her biggest influences.

6:30PM-8PM – “This Is It” Dance Band with Diva Montell: Rising Star Diva Montell is the up and coming star from the Chicagoland area. Her wide range of vocal abilities has her singing from Celine Deon to Opera. Diva has shared the stage, opening for The Jersey Boys, Il Volo, Alfio, & Michael Bolton to name a few.

8:15PM-8:30PM – Austin Giorgio: Austin Giorgio is a 22 year old best known for his charismatic stage presence, warm tone and ability to connect with all ages. Giorgio’s voice pays homage to his roots such as Frank Sinatra, and Dean Martin yet his production reflects the tastes of modern music.

8:30PM-10PM – “JOURNEY NITE” with Journey Recaptured: In honor of JOURNEY’s legacy, five well-seasoned musicians from Omaha Nebraska converged as ReCaptured to re-create, and allow audiences of all ages to recapture, the sights, the sounds, and the feelings we remember so well from the era when JOURNEY captivated us all with their music and their message. Every member of ReCaptured is dedicated to the goal of this re-creation, from Steve’s convincing and accurate portrayal of Steve Perry’s physical nuances and vocal inflections, to Danny’s amazingly powerful renditions of Neal Schon’s timeless guitar licks. Chuck, Dave, and Todd project a confident musical performance that fills every room with the rhythm of JOURNEY that we all know and love.

Friday – Little Italy Library Stage

5:30PM-7:30PM – Billy and the Jets: Known locally as “Chicago’s Own Piano Man”, Nick Psyhogios, a lifelong musician, songwriter & producer has worked with such greats as The Ramones, Brian Adams, Greg Khin, Tower of Power, Dion and Survivor. In the 80’s Nick recorded side-by-side with Paul Anka, David Foster, and Patrick Simmons, to name a few.

8PM-10PM – Hip Pockit 9 Piece Horn Band: Hip Pockit is a 9 piece R & B, Soul and Funk band that has been performing at clubs, festivals, corporate/private parties and weddings in the Chicagoland area since April 2002. They play a variety of R & B, Motown and Funk, with a touch of Soul. With over 150 years of musical know-how combined, this group of Chicago area musicians have a unique sound and feel for the audience. Experience their harmonious vocals, cool groove and hot brass they generate at every performance!

Friday – Piazza Dimaggio Stage

5PM-6:30PM – John Anthony: John Anthony is a musician, songwriter, and all around entertainer. Born and raised in New York, he traveled across the U.S. and Canada working with several different lounge acts.

6:45PM-8:15PM – Packy Angelo: Packy Angelo takes on tributes to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Bobby Darin, and much more. Packy has been on stage for over 53 years and continues to delight crowds with his vocal talents.

8:30PM-10PM – Jack D’Amico: A self proclaimed “piano bar junkie,” for years Jack has entertained audiences in some of Chicago’s finest lounges and supper clubs, all the while molding his style around those of the great saloon singers. Dave Hoekstra of the Chicago Sun-Times states: “Jack D’Amico, Chicago ’s favorite Sinatra stylist, is a brilliant saloon singer in his own right.”

Friday – Chiaruggi Stage

7:30PM-9:30PM – Lenny Leto: Accordionist Lenny Leto pays tribute to Dick Contino, the great American accordionist and singer.

Friday – Xplosive! Stage

5PM-10PM – Xplosive Sounds Old School Dance Party: Xplosive Sounds has been entertaining the masses for over 15 years, and will keep you dancing all night!

Other Notable Friday Attractions

8PM – Cannoli Eating Contest Sponsored by Ferrara Bakery

Throughout the day, internet sensations Uncle Louie & Carlo will be Emceeing on the Arcada Stage and will be at their booth selling merchandise and entertaining the masses with their comedy!

Saturday Entertainment

Saturday – Arcada Stage

NOON-2PM – Johnny Maggio: Velvet-voiced Johnny Maggio is an industry professional, with soaring vocals, powerful soul, and the warmth of timeless entertainers who connect with every person in the audience, even if for just one moment in time.

2:30-3:30 Born in Naples, Italy, Spavone came to the U.S. as a young boy. He is a classically trained singer and often serenades diners with a combination of styles, from Sinatra to Italian classics to opera and rock ‘n’ roll.

3:45PM – Presentation of the Joseph M. Esposito Neighborhood Hero Award to Madlyn Howard

4PM-5PM – Taylor Street’s Own Jazz Superstar Josie Falbo: Josie is and has been one of Chicago’s busiest and most frequently heard studio singers in Chicago for over 40 years. With hit records behind her, countless awards including runner up for Billboard’s song of the year with Love Found Me (Just In Time) in 1991, Josie’s talents have been utilized by so many and heard on all seven continents. Yes, even Antarctica!

5:30PM-6:30PM – The Queen of Caberet…Denise Tomasello & Her Fabulous 16 Piece Chicago Orchestra: Winner of Chicago’s 1998 After Dark Award for “Outstanding Cabaret Artist”, Denise Tomasello is the singer that the Chicago Tribune has called the consummate cabaret singer. She has headlined with Jackie Mason, Don Rickles and Alan King.

6:45PM-7:45PM – The Tony Ocean Show: Tony’s upbeat style embodies a time from the past that will be popular as long as we still enjoy the music of Sinatra, Martin, Davis, Darin, Tony Bennett, Tom Jones and others whose romantic songs and lyrics have affected so many of our lives through the years.

8:15PM-10PM – Direct from Las Vegas…The Bronx Wanderers: The Bronx Wanderers, up close and personal, yet larger than life, take you on a journey of the greatest music of our time. The story is about a family that delivers a passionate heart-pumping mix of of Rock N’ Roll’s great American Songbook from the first generation right through today’s current hit-makers. Buckle your seat belts because THE BRONX WANDERERS bring a high octane, toe tapping, dancing in the aisles experience that you WON’T WANT TO MISS!

Saturday – Little Italy Library Party Stage

3:30PM-5PM – The Vaughan Building Rock Show: The Vaughan Building is a Blues/Rock group that will definitely keep you on your feet!

5:30PM-7:30PM – Serendipity Party Band: Serendipity is a pop/rock band from the Chicago suburbs. Formed in 2011 by bassist Haley Blomquist and vocalist Josie Treffy. They are best known for playing a combination of 60’s/70’s/80’s covers and pop hits at summer festivals.

8PM-10PM – The Moods: Award-winning recording and performing artists since 1995, entertaining across the country and abroad, The Moods are a singing group consisting of three guys dedicated to the fine art of harmony and choreography. They’re known for their vocal stylings, but are equally accomplished in theater and on the big screen.

Saturday – Piazza Dimaggio Stage

1:30PM-3:30PM – Lee Stevens: The female Frank Sinatra!

4PM-5PM – Antonio Duca: Antonio Duca is a singer/entertainer who performs standard music such as Frank Sinatra, Charles Aznavour, Dean Martin, Bobby Darin, Tony Bennett, Elvis Presley, Julio Iglesias, Domenico Modugno, Andrea Bocelli and much more. He also sings in French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese etc.

5:15PM-6:15PM – Austin Giorgio from “The Voice”: Austin Giorgio is a 22 year old best known for his charismatic stage presence, warm tone and ability to connect with all ages. Giorgio’s voice pays homage to his roots such as Frank Sinatra, and Dean Martin yet his production reflects the tastes of modern music.

8:30PM-10PM – Dakota…His Way: Dakota’s first professional gig was at Mickey Rourke’s club in Miami at the age of five. Sinatra heard a recording Dakota did. At one of Sinatra’s concerts, he asked Tom Dreesen to go out into the audience to bring Dakota back stage to meet him. The meeting made The National Enquirer the next day. Sinatra gave Dakota the orange, silk handkerchief from his vest pocket & handed it to Dakota with his blessing, saying “You’ve Got it Kid.” Carry on the legend. Dakota went on to tribute Sinatra in “Legends in Concert” in Vegas.

Saturday – Chiaruggi Stage

1:30-3:30 – Joe Deluca Accordionist: Joe DeLuca began his studies of music at the age of 10. He was under the tutelage of a world renowned composer, arranger, and performer, Maestro Vincent Geraci. At the age of 17, Maestro Vincent Geraci asked Joe if he wanted to take over a schedule of 75 accordion students, which he accepted with much enthusiasm. His thirst for more musical knowledge is taking him to greater heights during his studies with Pat Ferreri, Frank Caruso, and Joe Martino!

4PM-8PM – Bob & Judy Accordion Duo

Saturday – Xplosive! Stage

NOON-10PM – Xplosive Sounds Old School Dance Party: Xplosive Sounds has been entertaining the masses for over 15 years, and will keep you dancing all day and night!

Saturday – Bambini Kids Stage

4PM-6:30PM – The Magic and Comedy of Dave Flemming / Balloon Art: The magic and comedy of Dave Flemming will trade off with balloon art every half hour, beginning with Dave Flemming from 4PM-4:30PM.

Other Notable Saturday Attractions

4:30PM-6PM – MWA Pro Wrestling: Pro wrestling action that is entertaining and exciting for the whole family!

7PM – Ravioli Eating Contest sponsored by Rock ‘N Ravioli, Evanston

8PM-9:30PM – MWA Pro Wrestling: Pro wrestling action that is entertaining and exciting for the whole family!

Sunday Entertainment

Sunday – Arcada Stage

10:15PM – Procession from The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii to the Festival Main Stage

11AM – The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii Mass celebrated by Fr. Richard Fragomeni: Remembering our loved ones, especially Suzanne Dalesandro.

NOON-1:30PM – Joe Martino & The Volare Dancers: Accordionist Joe Martino is a one man orchestra who sings Sinatra with style, and is accompanied by the beautiful and authentic Italian Volare dancers. Joe is a well known Festa Italiana entertainer who has performed Nationally, and Internationally.

1:45PM-3PM – Austin Giorgio from “The Voice”: Austin Giorgio is a 22 year old best known for his charismatic stage presence, warm tone and ability to connect with all ages. Giorgio’s voice pays homage to his roots such as Frank Sinatra, and Dean Martin yet his production reflects the tastes of modern music.

3:15PM-4:15PM – A Salute to Connie Francis with Sheri Winkelman: In the “Tribute to Connie Francis” Show, Sheri sings the classic, beautiful songs of Connie Francis in the style of these classic hits. The show consists of such famous numbers as, “Stupid Cupid,” “Where the Boys Are,” “Lipstick on Your Collar”, “Mama,” and many other songs that Connie made legendary. Audience interaction and participation are part of the show experience. The show is performed with backing tracks or an orchestra and runs just over an hour.

4:30PM-5PM – Meet Kathy Crispino, Carly Crispino and Cristina Bertolli from TLC’s television series “Smothered”

5:15-6:15 – East Coast Italian Show with Louis Vanaria from “A Bronx Tale” and “Boardwalk Empire” with JoAnn Robertozzi of NYC’s “Tre Bella”

6:30PM-7:15PM – “A Bronx Tale” Reunion with Joseph D’Onofrio (Slick), Louis Vanaria (Crazy Mario), Lillo Bancato (Cologero), Max Genovino ($20 Louie Dumps) and Taral Hicks (Jane)

7:30PM-9PM – Nick @ Knight Variety Show: A Medley of Memories with Nick Pontarelli and Gina Knight with a special appearance by Irene Michaels.

Sunday – Little Italy Library Party Stage

1:30PM-3PM – The Dynamix: The ultimate Midwest cover band playing the best in rock, pop, soul and more!

3:15PM-3:45PM – Young Sinatra Contest: This is your kid’s chance to perform their best Frank Sinatra impression for $100 cash prize and the chance to perform at Club Arcada’s “Sinatra Sunday” weekly Italian feast! If you would like to pre-register, email your child’s name, age, and hometown to marketing@oshows.com.

4:15PM-6PM – Rosie & The Rivets: Rosie & The Rivets are the Premier Retro Rock & Roll Show performing the best danceable music of the 1950’s and early 1960’s along with some current music with a retro twist.

6:30PM-8:30PM – Rick Lindy & The Wild Ones: The Wild Ones have performed around the USA, mainly in Chicago at such places as Navy Pier, Concerts at The Sears Tower, The John Hancock Building, Green Dolphin Street and The United Center . The great thing about this band is the tremendous chemistry all the members have. Let the Wild Ones take you to THE WILD SIDE of TOWN!!!

Sunday – Piazza Dimaggio Stage

1:30PM-2:45PM – Nino Folino: Nino croons great Italian standards, Frank Sinatra songs, and more!

3PM-4PM – A Salute to Dick Contino with Lenny Leto: Accordionist Lenny Leto pays tribute to Dick Contino, the great American accordionist and singer.

4:30PM-5:30PM – Tommy Panici: Entertaining internationally but based out of Chicago, IL, Tommy Panici performs hits by Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Domenico Modugno, and many others! This is a night that is sure to get your toes tapping and hips swinging!

5:45PM-6:30PM – Daniela Crocco: Daniela is professionally trained in dance, theater, and voice, and had more than ten years of experience performing on stage. She has performed all over the country and internationally as well, providing high-quality performances in every genre from classical to pop.

6:45PM-7:45PM – Puccini & Pavarotti with Franco Martorana and Simon Kyung Lee: The golden voiced tenor Franco Martorana has gained a well deserved reputation for his interpretations of Italian and Neapolitan songs. A two time recipient of awards from the National Bel Canto Foundation (in 1999 and 2000), Mr. Lee has utilized his flair with Italian music to his advantage in scores of solo concerts and recitals around the Midwest.

8PM-9PM – Vince Amore: Vince’s “forte” lies in his ability to woo the audience with his smooth melodic tones, his powerful expressive voice, his extensive vocal range, his detail to lyrics, and his seemingly effortless precision and vocal control. He shares his Love and Appreciation of Ballads, Folk, Country, Pop, Classical and Big Band music with the audiences that surround him.

Sunday – Chiaruggi Stage

4PM-7PM – Bob & Judy Accordion Duo

Sunday – Xplosive! Stage

NOON-10PM – Xplosive Sounds Old School Dance Party: Xplosive Sounds has been entertaining the masses for over 15 years, and will keep you dancing all day and night!

Sunday – Bambini Kids Stage

3PM-5:30PM – The Magic and Comedy of Dave Flemming / Balloon Art: The magic and comedy of Dave Flemming will trade off with balloon art every half hour, beginning with Dave Flemming from 3PM-3:30PM.