When in San Diego, do like the Sicilians. Shut down the streets of Little Italy, open your heart, rejoice, sing, dance, dine, and celebrate life in a festival that invites everyone to attend, absolutely free! Held on Sunday, May 22, 2011, the 18th annual Sicilian Festival never disappoints. Held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., you'll find the festival on India Street in the heart of Little Italy, San Diego, CA. Sponsored by Sicilian immigrants, the event charges for food purchases, but entertainment and admission is free.

Non-stop fun includes the popular grape stomp, three music stages, a beer garden, costumed parade and pasta eating contest. Emmy Award winning Giada De Laurentiis hosts cooking demonstrations at an outdoor mobile kitchen, while Roman Holiday Ensemble anchors the entertainment with Italian and Sicilian music to swinging Sinatra and Louie Prima styles. The Screamin' Primas serve up lively salutes to Sicilian-descended trumpeter and bandleader Louie Prima; Daniele Spadavecchia and his local gypsy mesmerizes; and other acts include Sicilian Swing, strolling accordionists, dancers, artisans, and amusements.

Park at San Diego County Administration Building's north lot and take the free shuttle to event. Sponsors are always welcomed, call Giovanna Bona (619) 993-9550 or email romanholiday@cox.net. Full schedule and events details are posted on sicilianfestival.org. Bonjourno!