While the weather tried to rain on the parade of the Festa Italiana attendees on Friday, the festival proved to be too exciting of an event to pass up.
As some folks ran away from the festival in fear of getting rained on, others ran towards the area disregarding the rain entirely. Cars were arriving as fast as they were leaving meaning the event went on without a hitch. More people were in attendance on Friday than the previous day, with the lot being filled up almost shoulder to shoulder.
The rides for children were open, with children and parents alike enjoying the amusement without a care in the world least of all the rain.
Dylan Ashley was in attendance again with his family, bringing his daughter along on a ride with him.
“I came out to get some of the food again with my family,” he said. “I didn’t even know there would be rides here, so I had to stick around and enjoy that too.”
Steve Caskey was also in attendance, volunteering for the Bradford High School football team, and he was happy to see that the festival was keeping up with the traditions.
“It’s exactly like how it’s always been. Kids are everywhere having fun, and there’s plenty of food for everyone,” he said.
Caskey also extended his thanks to the organizers of the festa for donating some of the proceeds to the Bradford High School football program.
“I can’t say enough about their generosity,” he said. “They show everyone a good time and give back to the community at the same time. It’s amazing in so many ways.”
Jennifer Fitton, a representative of Northwest Bank, volunteered at the ticket stand for the third year. “Northwest usually sends someone to volunteer, and I always jump at the chance,” Fitton said. “I love helping out here at the Festa.”
She mentioned that she liked that her station was facing the game stations where she could see the kids play with their families. Along with volunteering, Fitton mentioned that she had another reason for continuing to attend the festival.
“I’m not afraid to admit that I love coming here for the Italian wedding soup,” she said. “The line is not as long as the others because of the summer weather which is awesome for me.”
The Festa Italiana continues today, with more food, fun and family activities. This year’s Italian Festa features the new Teen Tent, which includes Yardzee, Blongo, music and more. The fireworks display starts at 10:30 p.m.
The Inexpensive Winos will be providing live music from 1 to 5 p.m. Afterwards, the No Name Trio will be playing from 6:15 to 9 p.m. Last to perform will be Witch Hazel featuring Lisa Platko who will be playing from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
