FORT MILL, S.C. – The St. Philip Neri Italian Festival will return for its 2025 celebration from May 15 to 17, featuring a packed schedule of entertainment, artisan vendors, and traditional Italian fare. The event takes place at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church and is open to the community.
Spanning three days, the festival will include live performances, children’s activities, wine and beer tastings, and a broad selection of food served both inside the Parish Center and outdoors.
Festival Schedule Highlights
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Thursday, May 15 (5:00–9:00 p.m.) marks the opening night, featuring indoor and outdoor food service, silent auctions, and live performances from pianist Ethan Uslan and local musician James Delco. Beer and wine tastings begin at 5:00 p.m. on the gated patio, hosted by Amor Artis Brewing and The Wine Shop at Rivergate.
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Friday, May 16 (11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. & 5:00–10:00 p.m.) is designated as Community Fun Night. The day includes a children’s Benvenuti Parade at 6:00 p.m., music by local bands such as Last Exit and Tide Brothers, and expanded kid-friendly activities in the Fun Zone.
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Saturday, May 17 (11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.) begins with the Cannoli 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Holy Macaroni Cornhole Tournament and live music throughout the day. Evening events include a charitable drawing by the Knights of Columbus and a live auction at 6:00 p.m., with an ’80s-themed performance by Hey L80’s closing out the festival.
Food and Drink
Festival-goers can expect a wide array of Italian dishes, from homemade lasagna, baked ziti, and eggplant parmesan, to meatball subs, hand-stuffed sausage, gelato, tiramisu, and cannoli. Food is available both inside and at outdoor vendor stations. Local beverage partners will offer beer, wine, and specialty drinks across the three days.
Artisans and Vendors
More than 30 artisan booths will be featured, offering handcrafted goods ranging from woodworking and jewelry to bath products and custom clothing. Notable participants include JayMac Woods, Tony’s Laser Engraving, and The Bethlehem Olive Wood Group.
Vendor booths will also include local businesses and nonprofits such as TC Greens, Pawsitive Action Service Dogs, Hook Line and Heroes, and the Italo-Brazilian Community.
Community Impact
All proceeds from the festival support the ministries and outreach programs of St. Philip Neri Catholic Church. A special charitable auction and a Catholic goods fundraiser by the church’s Life Teen Ministry will also contribute to faith-based youth programming.
Admission is free, and parking is available on-site. For a full schedule and vendor list, visit spnitalianfestival.com.
