Italian, American Friendship Festival set for Sept. 10 in Maniago

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Justin Weaver
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Games, free food, entertainment and static displays are just a part of this year's 10th annual Italian American Friendship Festival, hosted by the Honorary Squadron Commanders (of Aviano Air Base) Association and the community of Maniago, Italy, Sept. 10 in Piazza Italia, Maniago.

The day-long events are open to Airmen and their families and the festival provides an opportunity to maintain and strengthen community relations with Italian coworkers, friends, families and neighbors.

The attached brochure on the right lists the day's activities and event times. Activities include: Tennis, Swimming, Beach Volleyball, Archery, and an Exhibition Paintball Match. To sign-up, stop by the Dragon Fitness Center. Instructors will also be available throughout the day to coach children on Soccer, Basketball, Swimming, Archery and Tennis. Athletes will receive a free lunch and for those not participating, lunch, to include a first and second course, side dish and drink, will cost five euro.

While the different events will provide many opportunities for Italians and Americans to interact in good spirit and friendly competition, the timing of the festival closely aligns with the 10th anniversary of September 11th, 2001.

A commemoration to the 9/11 victims is slated for 4:45 p.m. at the Nursery School yard in Maniago and will include a flag ceremony and wreath laying at. The Maniago Philharmonic Band will also play during the ceremony.

A free dinner will be offered at 6:45 p.m. in Piazza Italia. Throughout the day, static displays, booths exploring the 100 years of the Pagliano e Gori, (Italian military airport), vintage bicycles, a knife museum and a display of local and international cork screws will be on exhibition.

Music and dance performances will close out the festival, beginning at 7:30 p.m. and ending later in the evening. Local music groups from Aviano and the surrounding communities will perform on the center stage in Piazza Italia.

A map of the location is located on the front of the attached brochure. For more information, contact Public Affairs at 632-7555.