The annual Italian Festival at Silver Springs near Ocala, Florida, transforms the 350 acre park into a Little Italy. The park is covered with the colors of Italy, the air is filled with Italian music performed live, and who can resist delicious Italian cuisine! You can feast on pizza, pasta, Italian sausage, bread and salads. There will be Italian ice deserts, and beer, wine and other beverages at Billy Bowlegs Bar and Grill. The local Sons of Italy Club lends a hand in presenting Italian dancing, singing and other activities. What could go better with an Italian festival than the sunny Florida weather?
When you come to Silver Springs for the Italian festival, be sure to take in all the other attractions here. This theme park has the world's largest collection of artesian springs. These were, in fact, the reason for Silver Springs becoming Florida's first official tourist attraction in 1890. Visitors today can enjoy glass-bottom boat tours on the Silver River, a Jeep safari through a 35-acre wilderness, and walking tours through beautiful natural habitat. You can see and photograph one of America's most endangered animals, the Florida, on a tour called the Panther Prowl. You can also see alligators in the Big Gator Lagoon. Everyone in the family will enjoy the Fort King River Cruise and the Lighthouse Ride, which provides a bird's-eye view of the park. To cool off, go to Silver Springs Wild Waters, a water park that includes a huge wave pool and eight waterslides. If you like the Italian Festival, You might want to check out some of the other festivals and shows held at Silver Springs throughout the year.
