Hoboken St. Ann's Italian Festival

Today kicks off the 99th (!!!) Annual St. Ann's Festival on 7th and Jefferson in Hoboken, NJ. The festival is open daily from 6 to 11 p.m. in the blocks around St. Ann's Church.In addition to great food, live music and a procession through the streets, there's also an area for outdoor drinking behind the church -- it's just an all-around great atmosphere!

This year, Hoboken's newly famous native son, "Cake Boss" Buddy Valastro, owner of Carlo's Bakery, will be awarded the 2009 St. Ann Festival Italian-American award. I wonder why -- does he have a show on TLC or something?!

Whatever you do, don't forget about those zeppole! The secret recipe is faithfully guarded by the members of the St. Ann's Guild. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan visited the festival for the sole purpose of trying this Italian treat quipping, "I heard about your zeppole."

Here's the schedule for entertainment for the week, all beginning at 8:15pm.

Wednesday, July 22 8:15 p.m.
Headlining on the Main Stage
7th & Jefferson
Latin Night Featuring
Son del Pueblo & Orchestra

Thursday, July 23 8:15 p.m.
Headlining on the Main Stage
7th & Jefferson
Ryan Pelton -- Tribute to the King

Friday, July 24 8:15 p.m.
Headlining on the Main Stage
7th & Jefferson
The Nerds

Saturday, July 25 8:15 p.m.
Headlining on the Main Stage
7th & Jefferson
Joey Dee & The Starliters

Sunday, July 26 8:15 p.m.
Headlining on the Main Stage
7th & Jefferson
Cristina Fontanelli & Orchestra