AN Italian festival is returning to Southend to bring the very best of Italian fare, flair and fun to the High Street.

Visitors to the town centre can expect a feast for the eyes and stomach, as a whole host of market stalls, displays and performers bring a flavour of Europe’s coolest country to Essex on Saturday, September, 5, as Italia in Piazza returns.

Italia in Piazza is a genuine Italian market, offering a wide variety of authentic Italian food and produce, including bread, pasta, cheese and salumi.

For coffee lovers, here you can enjoy your favourite barista-made coffee at the distinctive Piaggio Ape 3-wheeled coffee bar.

When it comes to gelati (ice creams) don’t miss Rossi’s and Tomassi’s – Southend’s very own Italian-heritage ice cream firms who will be offering tastings.

There will be a display of stunning Italian sports and super cars, including classic Alfa Romeos. One highlight for petrol heads will be an appearance by the Scuderia Ferrari team transporter, as featured in the movie Rush.

Electric karts will be on offer for a ride, suitable for children aged between three and ten-years old, who can test their skills around a safe, inflatable track.

A tribute to the great Luciano Pavarotti will feature an incredible look and soundalike, recreating some of the big man’s most famous arias, including every footie fans favourite, Nessun Dorma.

Southend Brass Band will play traditional Italian music, while choirs Funky Voices and The Big Sing will also entertain shoppers and day-trippers with a broad repertoire of songs. And to top off the celebrations there will be an Italian flag demonstration, including professional flag bearers wowing the crowds demonstrating the Italian flag throwing tradition.

Inside the Royals and Victoria shopping centres there will be Italian-themed craft activity workshops to keep youngsters amused. From making pasta jewellery to learning a few words and phrases of Italian, making gondolas and Venetian masks, even designing a pizza hat.

For more information about Southend BID visit www.onsouthend.com and follow the BID’s Twitter page @onSouthend