CLINTON, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — From food to the attractions there was a little bit of everything this weekend at the Little Italy festival in Clinton, Ind., as smiles filled the faces of every family I came in contact with.
As you walk the streets of Clinton, you can smell food and take a trip through Italian history. The Little Italy Festival is in its 55th year, but with rain off and on during the event, the members of the festival board said they did not know what to expect.
“I was scared to death that we were not going to have it,” Matthew Westerfield, entertainment chair for Little Italy Festival, said. “Really excited to see so many people coming out here supporting the families and doing things to be a part of the community.”
Those in attendance were able to celebrate Italian history and heritage through more than just food, but also clothing during the costume contest. Staff said some parents looked like they enjoyed the contest just as much as their children.
“The costume contest was one of my favorite things,” Westerfield said. “All the parents dressed their kids up to come in here and show their Italian spirit. I know the kids really love it and I think a lot of the moms really enjoy it as much as the kids.”
Festival staff said it is also important to the many people who returned home to see family and friends for a special weekend.
“We’ve got people coming form all over,” Mike Domeika, Little Italy Festival board member, said. “This is like a big homecoming every year. Kids that I remember when I was on the board years ago that are now bringing their kids down. It’s just a family tradition in Clinton, Ind.”
Festivities will continue throughout Monday as attractions such as rides and concerts will be available.
