Festa Italia sees tens of thousands of people descend on Lancaster

Tens of thousands of people basked in the glorious sunshine for a weekend full of Italian passion, culture and unforgettable experiences.

"It was absolutely fantastic,” said Paul Cusimano, one of the organisers.

The event kicked off on Saturday evening with Serenade in the Square – a free evening of music, atmosphere and Italian romance under the stars.

Opening on both the Saturday evening and Sunday was Molly Drury. Molly has only just turned 15 and has just been accepted at the Royal Northern College of Music as an Associate in Singing and Piano.

Molly went on to duet with soprano Leigh Rhianon Coggins.

Boogie Bill Roberts & the Billionaires blew the crowd away with an eclectic mix of R&B and Rat Pack Jazz, perfectly complementing Leigh and Frank Sinatra tribute act, Stevie Kay.

Red Rose Rising Youth Theatre Group were a new addition to the entertainment, performing some of the songs from their first show which was in April.

Voce were on hand to offer some powerful classics, as well as some modern covers with twists.

On Sunday, visitors were treated to authentic street food, live music, dance performances, vibrant stalls, a Vespa and Lambretta showcase, and a Ferrari display.

Alfa Romeos, a Fiat Abarth, Ducatis, Lambrettas and Vespas filled Church Street.

Ducati Preston brought their media truck with the guys on hand to talk everything Ducati.

This year saw the introduction of a few new stalls to add to an already fantastic selection of authentic Italian produce and products.

Paul said: "The sun gods were truly on our side this year. In fact, we had concerns the higher temperatures could put people off, but thankfully not.

"The feedback from both visitors and businesses was truly heartwarming. We have been showered with immense gratitude which of course makes it all worthwhile.”

Many businesses also reported a bumper day on the Sunday including retailers.

Paul added: "Seeing young and old dancing together in the Square on Saturday evening, strangers having a wonderful night and listening to top class musicians, was such a pleasure to witness.

"There were times when Festa never nearly happened but once again, we found the funding. A great deal of effort goes into this event on top of our day jobs.

"But when the end product is tens of thousands of people enjoying themselves, and with both the businesses and the city benefiting, it makes it all worthwhile

"Working with Victoria Muir and Bruno Buccelli is a real privilege and Lancaster Festa Italia is testament to them as individuals, and shows what can be achieved with the right mind and the skill set.

"Hopefully, we'll be back next year.”

Next year’s Festa Italia is set to take place on May 29 and 30.