THIS May will mark 17 years of Myrtleford's fantastic La Fiera festival.
The annual fair is all about celebrating all things Italian with laughter, dance, authentic Italian food, wines and lots of fun.
Decade-long volunteer and La Fiera spokesman, John Constenaro said the event is currently in its final stages of planning.
"La Fiera is primarily a community-based event: one of the last truly authentic Italian festivals in the country," he said.
"The vast majority of the authentic fare on the weekend will be made by northern and southern regional Italian groups."
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In the past, the fair has been launched with an opening act, which organisers will reinstate this year; featuring comedian James Liotta and his show 'Mamma's Still Not Happy'.
"I've been involved with the festival for quite a few years," Mr Liotta said.
"One of greatest things about La Fiera is people come from all over Victoria to attend.
"On Friday night, I'll be opening the festival weekend with my show at the EMPAC theatre in town.
"I've never done a country-Victorian show with this performance, so this will be the debut."
Mr Liotta will also be part of 'La Festa' on Saturday.
"We're really looking forward to welcoming James back," Mr Costenaro said.
"James Liotta has been a great supporter of La Fiera and the MC, for many years now.
"As a one-off, he's decided to put on a stand-up comedy performance as part of La Fiera.
"It's an honour to have such a renowned comedian from Melbourne to help us with the festival."
Saturday will be the focal point of the fair: 'La Festa'.
The day is sure to bring in the crowds with performances, food and wine from local producers and a great day out for everyone.
"One hundred per cent of our wines are provided by local vignerons," Mr Costenaro said.
"We will also source out to external food providers, as long as they supply authentic, great quality fare."
On Sunday, attendees will be able to drop into 'Il Mercato' to enjoy walking around the Piazza as the Myrtleford Farmers' Market takes on an Italian feel.
Special guest Elise Pulbrook will be there on the day to create canapes incorporating produce from the stalls at Il Mercato.
"We would like to ask any people who are interested to reach out and volunteer and lend a hand on Saturday especially," Mr Costenaro said.
"We would be very grateful for any amount of time they can contribute."
La Fiera is a ticketed event with the official program and all other details expected to be finalised by mid-March.
Tickets to James Liotta's show are already available: book your seats early for the one-night-only performance.
To find out more and to book tickets, visit: https://lafiera.com.au/.
