The Little Italy Arkansas Heritage Society will host a grand opening of its new museum in northwestern Pulaski County (33615 Highway 300, Roland, Arkansas 72135) on Sunday, September 15 from 12-5 p.m. The event will include guided tours, live music, authentic Italian foods and refreshments from Little Italy's only operating winery, An Enchanting Evening, and Repicci's Italian Ice. There is no admission fee, but donations will be accepted.

The museum is the culmination of a more than two-decade effort by descendants and residents to highlight the rich history of Central Arkansas's only Italian community. Nearly a century ago, in the midst of federal Prohibition, Little Italy's immigrant wine-producers supplied the region's consumers with clean, reliable alcohol.

The community quickly gained notoriety, becoming a favorite destination of the state's political figures. The museum's exhibits weave a historic narrative, which follow the fifteen founding families who established four wineries and transplanted their faith, traditions and culture to what was then the Arkansas wilderness.

Following the grand opening, free admission will be available to the museum Saturdays 1-3 p.m. and Sundays 12-3 p.m.