STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Thousands of Staten Islanders turned out for the inaugural "Italian Festival at the Mount" this weekend at Mount Loretto in Pleasant Plains.
The event was hosted by the Catholic Charities of Staten Island and was presented by ShopRite. It ran from 5-11 p.m. Friday, 3-11 p.m. Saturday and 2-9 p.m. Sunday at 6450 Hylan Blvd.
"It was a great display for Catholic Charities and a great way for the Staten Island community to come together for an event," said Anthony Rapacciuolo, who owns PRcision which coordinates events at Mount Loretto.
Rapacciuolo was thrilled with the overwhelming turnout at the event.
A cannoli-eating contest was sponsored by Alfonso's Bakery.
Vendors at the event included: Food Network star Chef Dom Tesoriero's Mac Truck, Soda City, John's Catering, Beansie Cakes, Montalbano's of Rosebank, Peter Botros' Stone House, Giovanni's Trattoria, Uncle Louie G's, Daiquiri on Wheels, Orange Theory, Pinot's Palette and Vincent's Zeppoles.
An Italian-style, outdoor cafe served espressos, sangria and Italian beers. The event included more than 10 trailer-style games, mechanical rides and live musical performances throughout all three days.
Admission to the festival was free, but parking was $5 which will be donated to the Catholic Charities organization.