LA FESTA ITALIANA

August 29 - September 1, 2025  •  Downtown Scranton, PA

Mangia! One of Lackawanna County’s most delicious traditions is La Festa Italiana, held annually on Labor Day Weekend. The four-day celebration of culture, cuisine, and music brings together people of all ethnic backgrounds from near and far. “La Festa,” as the locals call it, attracts over 100,000 people annually to Courthouse Square in Downtown Scranton.

Stay the weekend and explore some of our most popular attractions and fun things to do!

La Festa Italiana 2023 Hiller 2643 LCVB

La Festa Italiana 2023 Hiller 2655 LCVB

Enjoy delicious Italian delicacies, cannoli, a wide variety of pizza, cannoli, and homemade pasta dishes. Did we mention the incredible cannoli? But La Festa Italiana isn’t just about the food — enjoy continuous live entertainment, shopping, and more throughout the weekend!

While you savor authentic Italian flavors, enjoy nonstop entertainment throughout the weekend on three lively stages. From traditional Italian vocalists and vibrant dance groups to local bands and cultural performances, there's something for everyone to enjoy day and night.

Beyond the music, explore artisan crafts, Italian-themed apparel and novelties, and a dedicated Heritage Park celebrating Italian-American culture. Kids can enjoy bounce rides, and adults can join in on friendly bocce matches and more family-friendly fun.

A game of Bocce at La Festa Italiana in Downtown Scranton, PA
A game of bocce being played at La Festa Italiana

Start your La Festa Italiana Saturday by lacing up for the 13th Annual Captain James R. Minicozzi Memorial Race, taking place an hour before the festival opens on Saturday, August 30th, in Downtown Scranton. This 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk honors Captain James R. Minicozzi while supporting local scholarships and the Boys & Girls Clubs of NEPA. Enjoy race-day excitement near Courthouse Square, awards for top finishers, and special recognition for Armed Forces members.

Be sure to also check out the La Festa Italiana Car Show from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM later that day, featuring imported, European, and Italian sports cars, vintage and modern Corvettes, Vespas, and motorcycles!

On Sunday, August 31st, the annual Italian Mass will be held at 10:00 AM at the Cathedral of Saint Peter — just one block from Courthouse Square. This cherished tradition will also be broadcast live by CTV: Catholic Television of the Diocese of Scranton. And, on Monday, September 1st, join the celebration honoring WWII veteran Gene "Dempsey" Passarella with a special 100th birthday tribute. The beloved maestro of the Dempsey Orchestra will be recognized for a lifetime of music and service.

The Captain James R. Minicozzi Memorial Race in Scranton, PA
The Captain James R. Minicozzi Memorial Race

Info & Event Hours

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An aerial shot of  during La Festa Italiana over Courthouse Square in Downtown Scranton, PA
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La Festa Italiana is a free event that will take place from Friday, August 29th to Monday, September 1st, 2025. The event hours are as follows:

  • Friday, August 29th | 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
  • Saturday, August 30th | 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  • Sunday, August 31st | 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  • Monday, September 1st | 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Entertainment Schedule

La Festa Italiana 2023 Hiller 2570 LCVB

Experience nonstop entertainment at La Festa Italiana this year, featuring energetic music performances and mesmerizing dance shows that will keep the festivities alive all weekend! Take a look at the 2025 La Festa Italiana entertainment schedule and vendor map below to get a taste of what’s in store.

The 2025 La Festa Italiana Entertainment Schedule

The 2025 La Festa Italiana Entertainment Schedule

The 2025 La Festa Italiana Vendor Map

Address & Parking

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Location

Courthouse Square, 200 Adams Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503

Email

lafestascranton@gmail.com

Parking

Several parking garages are conveniently located near Courthouse Square, making it easy and hassle-free for you to enjoy all the festival festivities. Please note that on-street parking may be limited in and around Downtown Scranton.

We recommend confirming operating hours and getting up-to-date info directly with the venue prior to your visit.

 

While You're In Town