May 30 & 31 , McKee Farms Park, Fitchburg
For More Info, Admission, Schedule, CLICK HERE!
Festa Italia, the annual cultural picnic and music festival is May 30th & 31st at McKee Farms Park, 2930 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg. It’s presented by the Italian Workmen’s Club of Madison, a fraternal organization that was founded in 1912 and is one of the oldest, continuously active Italian clubs in America. A portion of the profits from the event go toward scholarships for deserving high school seniors in Dane County with plans to attend a four-year university, or two- year college or technical school and for UW-Madison students enrolled in the Italian studies program who plan to study in Italy.
Festa Italia is a celebration of food, music, culture, sports and family fun that features: A variety of Italian foods and desserts, cultural exhibits, traditional and popular live music performances on a concert stage in a high peak tent, Italian music and dance ensembles, pasta eating contest, cooking demonstrations, flags of Italy parade, bocce tournaments, member recognition ceremony, magic show, face painter, children’s games and more.
Festa Italia is open Saturday, May 30th 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM and Sunday, May 31st 11:00 AM – 6:30 PM. An outdoor mass is scheduled for 10:00 AM on Sunday in the Culture Tent.
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Madison, WI – [July 15, 2025] – The Italian Workmen’s Club building, located at 914 Regent Street in Madison, Wisconsin, has been officially designated as a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its deep cultural and historical significance. The building was constructed by members of the club in 1922 and remodeled in 1935 and has continuously served as a meeting place for the Italian Workmen’s Club since its construction. To commemorate this prestigious designation, a special event will be held featuring the unveiling of a commemorative plaque on the building’s exterior.
The event will take place on Tuesday, July 15 at 5:00 PM at the Italian Workmen’s Club building. The City of Madison will formally honor the occasion, with local dignitaries, community leaders, and members of the neighborhood in attendance. Light refreshments will be served at the Italian Workmen’s Club after the completion of the dedication.
“This designation is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Italian Workmen’s Club and its impact on Madison’s rich cultural history,” said Joe Tripalin, President. “We are excited to share our building’s proud history and celebrate this milestone with the community.”
The Italian Workmen’s Club has played a pivotal role in Madison’s history, serving as a hub for Italian-American culture, social gatherings, and advocacy for workers’ rights since its founding. The National Historic Landmark status ensures that this important piece of heritage will be preserved for future generations.
Italian Language Classes (Tuscan Language Academy)
Italian language classes offered through the Tuscan Language Academy include: Intermediate Italian, Advanced Italian conversation & culture, and personal courses. For more information about location and registration and contact information, visit the Tuscan Language Academy website.
Greenbush Bar
The Greenbush bar is under new ownership and open for business. Please read the following Madison Magazine article for more information: Greenbush Bar Reopening under new ownership.
Greenbush Neighborhood Panel Discussion
VIDEO – Panel Discussion 9-13-2025 (IWC Clubhouse)
Neighborhood House Videos:
This is one of two panels. The first panel discussion was held on February 18th, 2016.
VIDEO – Neighborhood House Panel Discussion #1 of 2
VIDEO – Neighborhood House Panel Discussion #2 of 2
About the Club
The Italian Workmen’s Club is located at 914 Regent Street in Madison, WI. It is one of the oldest clubs of its kind in the United States.
The Club’s mission is to preserve and promote the history, culture, language, and traditions of Italians and Italian Americans. The IWC is devoted to providing social opportunities that encourage its members to embrace their common Italian heritage, and to engage with the surrounding community, thereby increasing awareness of and appreciation for the collective achievements, honors and contributions of their ancestors.