The Richmond Original Italian Street Festival started with the dream of one individual to bring to Richmond the opportunity to experience the culture and heritage of its Italian population. Originally the festival was supported by two Italian organizations - The Italian American Business and Professional Societa and the Italian American Cultural Association - and St. John’s Episcopal Church.
Our first year was a huge success.

St. John’s left us in our third year and we were then joined by the third and oldest Italian organization in Richmond, Giuseppe Verdi Lodge, Order Sons of Italy. Our mission is to promote Italian Culture and Heritage and to generate revenues to be used for selected charities in the Richmond area. Throughout the years we have been able to offer a variety of Italian food and wine, a free children’s area, and a variety of non-food vendors.