Jayco Mackay Italian Street Party returns May 14

It’s been three long years since Mackay’s last Italian Street Party but the event will finally make its long awaited return. Here’s everything you need to know.

Pasta-lovers rejoice! Mackay’s Italian Street Party is back after a three-year hiatus.

From 3pm to 9pm on Saturday, May 14, Wood and Victoria street in the CBD will turn into a sea of red, white and green with all of the best Italian food, drink and entertainment on offer.

There will be no shortage of entertainment at this year’s Italian Street Party. Picture: Jayco Mackay Italian Street Party.

Opera singer Paul Tabone, Viva, Kathleen Campbell, Aspire Performing Arts and Domenico and the Latin Mafia will entertain guests at the free entry event.

There are 23 vendors in total, 20 from Mackay and three from the Whitsundays.

While not all Italian restaurants, they have been asked to put an Italian spin on their menu for the evening.

As well as the performances, food and beverages, there will be traditional Italian folk dancing, a spaghetti-eating competition, free kids rides and jumping castles, face painting, an Italian car and motorbike display and a raffle with a $1000 travel voucher as the major prize

While not all vendors are traditionally Italian food makers, they have been asked to put an Italian spin on all of their dishes. Picture: Jayco Mackay Italian Street Party.

Event co-ordinator Colleen Rose said organisers were excited to bring the event back after they received the all clear just before Christmas.

They are promising an event the whole family can enjoy.

“Usually an event like this would take all year so because we have only had a few months to put it all together, we haven’t changed much and we’re trying to keep with our same traditions,” Ms Rose said.

The Jayco Mackay Italian Street Party has drawn large crowds to Mackay streets in the past. Picture: File.

“For families it’s going to be amazing, but also for the older generation the dancing in the street to the Italian and Latin music, lots of cannoli and pasta and pizza for them to enjoy.”

Another part of the festival is Audrey’s Roman Holiday Party, a paint and sip fundraiser.

Beginning at 6.30pm at Crossroad Arts, the event costs $100 per person with each ticket including champagne, nibbles and a two hour paint session.

To book head to the Crossroad Arts website or call 4953 5122.

For more information and updates in the lead up to the event, like the Jayco Mackay Italian Street Party Facebook page.