‘Little Italy Days’ returning to Bloomfield

PITTSBURGH — After a year off due to the pandemic, Bloomfield folks are excited to welcome back the annual “Little Italy Days” event.

“It’s fun, everybody’s in good spirits,” said one city resident.

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The four-day festival, considered the largest heritage celebration in the region, kicks off Thursday on Liberty Avenue.

“We’re in full force,” said Sal Richetti, Event Organizer. “We’ve got plenty of vendors, plenty of food.”

Richetti told Channel 11 that 30 musical entertainers will perform on multiple stages. There will also be entertainment for children in a “kid zone” as well as adult games. An Italian vs. Irish Celebrity Bocce Tournament will take place Thursday.

Richetti said not all previous vendors will be returning due to worker shortages, but they so far have a substantial list.

Theresa Richter, owner of Paddy Cake Bakery on Liberty told us she was the first to put in a vendor application. That means she’ll be selling baked goods outside of her shop, in addition to the store being open. She is particularly excited to feature their cannolis.

“It’s been a little while since everyone’s been able to get out and have a good time and celebrate our neighborhood,” she said. “We’re super excited!”

The festival is expected to provide a big boost to businesses after a trying year.

>>> RELATED STORY: Little Italy Days is returning to Bloomfield

“The businesses look forward to this time of the year, they make a substantial amount of revenue,” said Mark Machi, who grew up in the neighborhood and owns Exercise Warehouse Gym there.

As for safety precautions, Richetti said that folks who have not been vaccinated are asked to wear masks. Any new county mandates issued between now and the festival will be followed, he said.

The festival is free to enter and enjoy. For the first time, however, people can purchase “VIP” tickets for additional amenities.

For more information on that, plus a schedule and road closures, click here.

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