Via Italia bike races, St. Angela Merici Festival return this weekend

Two long-standing traditions return to Windsor’s Little Italy this weekend.

The 65th annual Tour di Via Italia bike races and the 36th annual St. Angela Merici Festival are both happening along Erie Street on Aug. 12 and 13.

“We’re thrilled to once again host each of these long-standing and well-respected Erie Street events,” said Filip Rocca, president of the Via Italia Business Improvement Area.

“They’re a testament to honouring our area’s rich cultural history and celebrating it. It’s an incredible weekend of racing, camaraderie, culture, and fun.”

The St. Angela Merici Festival features live music and food on Saturday. The music and food continues on Sunday, along with a range activities for family and children. An outdoor mass and procession begins at 7:30 p.m. Sunday.

Celebrating a “rich legacy of cycling excellence,” the Tour di Via Italia bike races run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday. The day includes children’s bike events at 2 p.m., with pro racing starting at 5 p.m.

Organizers said the Tour di Via Italia has “grown into a premiere cycling event, attracting top athletes from around the globe, as well as local enthusiasts eager to test their mettle on the challenging course.”

“We are very proud to continue the tradition of bringing first-class bike racing to Erie Street,” said Pietro DiPonio, president of Tour di Via Italia.

“It’s fast, unique, exciting, and free. We invite everyone to come to Erie Street and enjoy the atmosphere and the patios at their best.”