By Chris Gomez | Little Italy News
The midst of summer is upon us and it’s time to soak it all in. Come fall, you’ll want to carry some sweet summer memories with you. What better way to celebrate the warmest season than to spend the perfect day in Little Italy?
Take advantage of all of the simple pleasures Little Italy has to offer, from the warm bay breeze to the smell of fresh produce on a Saturday morning. Here’s how to make the best of your summer days and nights in the Little Italy neighborhood.
Make connections that will last long after summer ends
Meet new people and mingle with Little Italy business owners, residents and honored dignitaries at the annual State of the Neighborhood rooftop dinner.
Chat it up with the people of Little Italy as you enjoy an Italian family-style dinner of several tasty dishes donated by multiple Little Italy restaurants.
Marco LiMandri, Little Italy Association’s chief executive administrator, will spark conversation and give a presentation about the happenings of Little Italy.
Guests are invited to enjoy this summer evening on Wednesday, July 26, from 5:30–8:30 p.m. on the rooftop of the County of San Diego parking structure on Cedar Street.
Tickets are $45 for a delicious dinner with a scenic view, great company and live music — the perfect night for the whole family.
Watch a great movie under the stars
The Little Italy Summer Film Festival makes for the perfect date night. Every Saturday evening at 8 p.m., through August, take your loved one to Little Italy’s Amici Park outdoor amphitheater for an Italian film with English subtitles under the stars.
Create the perfect ambience by planning ahead and stopping by the Little Italy Mercato during the day. With more than 130 vendors selling fresh produce and artisan-made goods, you’ll be sure to pack the perfect picnic basket for the film festival. Little Italy Mercato happens every Saturday from 8 a.m.–2 p.m. and is celebrating its ninth year of being open!
Listen to the sounds of summer and bring your family along
San Diego residents, members of the military and their families are all invited to The Marine Band San Diego Summer Concert on Saturday, Aug. 5 from 6 p.m. to dusk. Dance until the sun goes down to live music by the 45-piece Marine Band, the Party Band and the Jazz Band. This event is located in the heart of the neighborhood by the Piazza Basilone on West Fir Street between India Street and Kettner Boulevard and it’s free.
To find out more information on how to spend your summer days and nights in Little Italy, please visit littleitalysd.com. To stay connected with us during the summer season, check out what’s going on in our neighborhood by following us on Instagram and Twitter @LittleItalySD and Facebook/San Diego Little Italy.
—Christopher Gomez has been Little Italy’s district manager since 2000. Reach him at [email protected].