Today there are more than 15 million Italian Americans, making it the fourth largest ancestry group in the country. Whether you’ve got marinara and Chianti in your veins or are simply a life-long fan, come celebrate the pride of Italy at Quinault Beach Resort and Casino’s first annual Italy on the Beach.
Occurring Friday, Saturday, and Sunday May 20-22, this event is the brainchild of Don Kajans, CEO, Quinault Beach Resort and Casino and Tony Anderson, President of the Sons of Italy for the State of Washington. The duo brought in local radio host, philanthropist, and performer Tony La Stella. A performer with such greats as Luciano Pavarotti, Tony Bennett, Julie Andrews, Bernadette Peters, and members of Heart, Yes, Queen, the Beach Boys, and Steppenwolf, La Stella considers himself “very, very blessed to have an extremely amazing career as an entertainer for the last 30 years.”
Italy on the Beach came about when La Stella, Quinault Beach management, the Northwest Italian Radio Show, and members of the local Sons of Italy order realized “the only Italian events in this region happen August through October. We decided to hold a summer kick-off.”
“The event is only possible due to the work of many of our team members behind-the-scenes including the fantastic Quinault Beach Resort and Casino staff and numerous volunteers from Sons of Italy,” says La Stella crediting the combined efforts to pull off an event of this magnitude.
Continues La Stella, “We hope it will be a really good event; Quinault Beach is really bending over backwards to make it happen.” Familiar with producing large events, Tony and his wife use their La Stella Foundation to change lives through music for children, veterans, and the Northwest community, including Tacoma’s hugely popular Freedom Fair.
This event promises to become an annual weekend to remember. Friday, May 20 opens with a Prosecco reception where Tony will play classical guitar and host an Italian-themed sing-along. Attendees can begin to sample Quinault Beach’s array of themed food and beverages, gaming, and on-site vendors.
The fun continues Saturday with more time to browse authentic olive oils and brick oven pizza, shop, and play. Later, guests can enjoy an evening ‘Tribute to Frank Sinatra Show’ by Tony La Stella and the Goombas. Don’t worry if you need to brush up on your Ol’ Blue Eyes repertoire, Tony’s got you covered; he and his band have performed this show for more than 25 years, in Las Vegas and across the country.
Throughout the weekend, attendees will be eligible for prize giveaways, join in with celebrity table gaming, and receive valuable Resort coupons.
Tickets to the event are $24.99 for a Saturday-only day pass or $249 for a three day/two night hotel packages which include Friday night’s reception, gaming, food, and beverage coupons, and Saturday night’s Sinatra extravaganza. There are limited packages available as it is valued at almost $450. La Stella recommends booking early and by phone, though online reservations are also accepted.
Coupons, promotions, and discounts are only available to Q-Club members, but anyone 21+ can sign up on the spot for free. Earned points can be spent like cash throughout the resort on such goodies as spa treatments, meals, game play, or even gas to come back next time.
At only 90 minutes from Olympia, let Quinault Beach bring Italy to you and ring in summer in style. Call the Resort at 888-461-2214 with questions about the event or to book your stay.
Follow the La Stella Foundation on Facebook for updates on shows, fundraisers, and regional volunteer opportunities.
Ciao Bella!
