The Italian American Association of Monmouth County will present its annual festival at Freehold Raceway, Park Avenue (Route 33), Freehold, July 11- 14. The festival hours are 6-11 p.m. each night.

Italian food, games, rides, crafters and entertainment are on the agenda. Italian novelties and a collection of children's books translated into Italian will be available. Everyone is welcome to attend the festival.

Award-winning tenor Salvatore Chiarelli will perform on July 14. Cheryl Scuorzo, president of the Italian American Association of Monmouth County and chairwoman of the event, said the festival focuses on the pride in rich Italian culture that she said does not get the credit it deserves.

"Too many reality shows give people the wrong impression of our heritage," Scuorzo said. "Those shows do not focus on our art, music and other accomplishments."

Parking is free, and so is admission to the festival.

The festival will open at 6 p.m. July 11 with bracelet night, where guests pay one price for unlimited rides. During the evening, attendees will be treated to the music of Mike Aromando and his Italian strolling band.

Those visiting the festival on July 12 will hear radio personalities from 101.5 FM from 6 to 8 p.m. There will be prizes and giveaways. Guests will hear Vincent Crocilla, 7, sing Italian songs from 7 to 7:30 p.m., followed by Voice Works featuring the Pitch Black vocal ensemble, and Italian music by Nick Perrone from 8:15 to 9 p.m.

On July 13, Perrone will perform from 7 to 7:45 p.m., followed by Eric Delauro performing Frank Sinatra songs from 7:45 to 8:30 p.m.

On July 14, those who wish may attend a 6:30 p.m. Mass at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, McLean Street, Freehold. A procession honoring Our Lady of Mount Carmel will begin at 7:30 p.m. and proceed from the church to the festival.

Chiarelli, a native of New York City, trained in Italy and New York City for the opera stage. He has appeared on opera stages in North America and Europe. Chiarelli will perform at the festival at 7:30 p.m. July 14.

Perrone will perform after Chiarelli, and a fireworks display is scheduled for 9:30 p.m.

According to Scuorzo, "For four days, nothing is fattening, so buon appetito."