Booth space for local restaurants is still available for this year’s Newport Italianfest, one of the most popular events of the Greater Cincinnati summer festival season.
Held on the banks of the Ohio River on Newport’s Riverboat Row between the Purple People and Taylor-Southgate bridges, the 26th Annual Italianfest takes place June 8-11.
“One of the best attractions at Italianfest is the great food that is served every year,” said Sal Wertheim, Special Events Coordinator for The City of Newport. “We still have some booth space available for restaurants, and we are encouraging some of the new restaurants that have recently opened to come down and experience Italianfest.
Named a Top 20 Event for June by the Southeast Tourism Society, Italianfest features authentic Italian and other varieties and styles of food as well as live Italian music performed by entertainers from around the nation and from “the old country,” a Golf Outing, and a Family Photo Booth showcasing the history of Italian families that settled in Newport generations ago.
“It’s a great time, and it’s a tremendous chance for especially the new restaurants to introduce their food and concept to tens of thousands of potential new customers,” Wertheim said. “Really for any restaurant, there’s no better way to get your name and food out there than Italianfest. One of the main reasons people come is to try and sample all the great food. So restaurant owners and operators should get in touch with me so they can be a part of this year’s Italianfest.”
Highlights include the second annual Lauren Hill 5K Spaghetti Run, which takes place on Saturday, June 9, at 7 p.m. Other fun includes a cooking contest, games, and rides for the little ones.
Events kick off with a Bocci Ball Tournament at Pompilio’s Restaurant on Wednesday. The event averages more than 100,000 visitors. For more info, call 859-292-3666 and follow Italianfest on Facebook.
Interested restaurant owners and operators should contact Wertheim at 859-912-2509.
City of Newport