Festa D'Italia

Well this was a really pleasant surprise.

Just when you think you are going to another Italian Festival we came here to Casa Belvedere. It is located in the Grymes Hill Section of Staten Island. The mansion itself was built in 1908 and one of the few Italianate arts and crafts style mansions in the area. It is an historic landmark which is listed on the NY State and National register of historic places.

When you turn the corner and enter the grounds of the mansion the views are absolutely breathtaking. The Verrazano Bridge and New York Harbor are laid out in front of you like a picture postcard.

They had vintage cars, Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches and even a 1915 Lancia.

Another point of interest was all the photos in the house called "The Greats". It is an exhibit of Italian American Sports legends from every sport imaginable.

They also had food and drinks from local Italian merchants, activities for the kids and items for sale.

The one thing I tried was a wheat beer from a local brewery called Flagship Brewery which opened in 2013 in the Tompkinsville section of Staten Island. It was named the Flagship American Wit with 5.75% ABV it is reminiscent of a Belgian Ale. It was very refreshing in an Indian Summer kind of day.

It happens every September, the last weekend for the past 4 to 5 years.

Really beautiful location! You can see half of the north shore from the top of this hill. There's also a lot of lawn to just stroll on despite the compact neighborhood.