COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Columbia Italian Festival has been postponed to Saturday, Oct. 17, at Finlay Park after organizers cited a rainy weekend forecast tied to Hurricane Isaias.
The festival was originally scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 10. Organizers moved it by one week to Saturday, October 17, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Finlay Park, city and festival officials said. Admission remains free.
Festival Lead Tripp Roche said organizers watched the forecast and consulted local partners before choosing the established rain date for the safety and experience of guests, vendors, entertainers, volunteers and partners. The Midlands is expected to experience heavy rain and wind associated with Hurricane Isaias through Sunday.
The festival is returning for the first time in 12 years. Guests can expect Italian food and desserts, local vendors, Ferrari displays, bocce, cultural demonstrations, live entertainment and related activities throughout the park.
Organizer Tripp Roche said the Italian Festival has been rescheduled for Oct. 17 at Finlay Park in Columbia. A ceremony is slated for 2 p.m. on the park’s main stage featuring remarks from Roche, Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann and Richland County Council Vice Chairman Derek Pugh. Entertainment plans include Italian sword fighting, Palmetto Opera and ColaJazz performances, organizers said.
Parking is available at Arsenal Hill, the PJ Cannon Parking Facility and along Taylor and Lincoln Streets. Accessible parking is available at the Finlay Park entrance at 1227 Taylor St. and at the Cannon Parking Facility, 1110 Lady St.
