This weekend, KTLA’s very own Samantha Cortese was among several honorees recognized for their achievements and community impact during the 2025 Festa Italiana in San Pedro.
Hosted by the Little Italy of Los Angeles Association (LILAA), the annual street festival celebrated Italian American Heritage Month on Saturday, Oct. 11, transforming San Pedro’s Little Italy district into a vibrant celebration of food, culture and music.
Cortese — anchor of the KTLA 5 News at 4 p.m., breaking news reporter, and creator and co-host of “Do It Live!” — was recognized for her excellence in journalism and contributions to Southern California’s media landscape.
Other honorees included international supermodel and cultural ambassador Bianca Balti, community leader Maria Bruno, restaurateur Tony “DG” De Girolamo, and Giovanni Di Iorio, whose “Ciao Bella” Pizza Truck was named Vendor of the Year, according to LILAA.
Now in its latest edition, Festa Italiana drew thousands of visitors with authentic regional dishes, live performances, and family-friendly activities. Highlights included appearances by chefs Antonello Zito and Luigi Fineo, performances by Italian pop star Arianna Bergamaschi, and the beloved San Pedro Nonnas creating a “cannoli storm” live on site.
“This free, family-friendly celebration is more than a festival: it is a tribute to our shared heritage, culture, and community spirit,” said Mario Amalfitano, president of the Little Italy of Los Angeles Association.
The free, day-long celebration also serves as the organization’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting youth scholarships and cultural programming throughout the year.
For more information, visit lilaa.org/festa-italiana.
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