The Knights of Columbus Villa Marie Council #6342 will host its annual Italian Festival on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Historic Smithville in Galloway, New Jersey. The rain date is Sunday, Sept. 20.
Now in its 16th year, the festival has grown into a full-day family experience featuring Italian food, wine, live entertainment, shopping, children’s activities, and plenty of opportunities to simply enjoy the unique atmosphere of Historic Smithville.
This year’s festival will feature 15 food vendors, with many specializing in Italian cuisine, as well as 80 craft and retail vendors offering handmade crafts, artwork, jewelry, specialty merchandise, gifts, and other unique items. Three participating wineries will offer wine sampling, and a beer truck will feature beer and White Claw hard seltzers.
Entertainment will take place throughout the festival on three stages. The main stage will feature four hours of live music by Jim Craine and the Atlantic City All Star Band, performing favorites associated with legendary Italian-American entertainers including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Tony Bennett, and Louis Prima. The music begins at 11:30 a.m.
Additional entertainment will include an Italian music DJ at the Gazebo Pavilion near the bocce courts, where guests can enjoy Italian favorites and make on-site requests. Dance Forum South Studio will also present performances featuring local dancers.
Families can take part in children’s activities including face painting, while visitors of all ages can try their hand at free bocce ball. No experience is necessary, and instructions will be provided. Guests can register on site and learn to play while enjoying the festival.
The festival will also feature a 50/50 raffle, with last year’s prize pool reaching $2,400. Last year’s winner took home $1,200. The 2026 drawing will take place at 4:45 p.m., and the winner does not need to be present.
The Knights of Columbus Villa Marie Council #6342 organizes the Italian Festival as part of its commitment to supporting the local community and charitable causes.
Located just minutes from Atlantic City, Historic Smithville provides a unique backdrop for the event, with approximately 50 shops, restaurants, cobblestone walkways, footbridges, and a setting designed to offer visitors a step back in time.
With food, shopping, wine, music, family activities, and the charm of Historic Smithville all in one location, the Italian Festival offers something for visitors of all ages.
Admission to the festival is free.
For complete festival information, entertainment details, directions, and updates, visit:
