Festive, Italian-themed weekend kicks off in Folsom for Italian sister-city celebration

This weekend brings an incredibly festive, Italian-themed celebration to Folsom, in honor of the 25th anniversary of its Sister City relationship with Pieve del Grappa, Italy. There will be delicious Italian food, wine, cultural activities and more, and it all kicks off bright and early Saturday morning in Historic Folsom. The partnership began in 2000 with Crespano del Grappa—now part of Pieve del Grappa—and honors Folsom's Italian roots and the legacy of Giuseppe "Joe" Murer, a prominent community figure. An early leader in Folsom, he built the Murer House, which is now a cultural landmark celebrating the city's Italian heritage. "Our Sister City partnership with Pieve del Grappa has been an important part of Folsom for 25 years. It reflects our community's Italian heritage and honors the legacy of Joe Murer," said Mayor Sarah Aquino. "This milestone is a great opportunity to celebrate our history, our friendship, and the cultural ties that continue to bring our two cities together." To commemorate this milestone, the Folsom community will host events and activities throughout September to celebrate the lasting friendship between the two cities. Featured Events Ciao Folsom!Historic Folsom | Saturday, September 13 | 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.Celebrate Italian culture and international friendship in the heart of Historic Folsom. Hosted by the Folsom Historic District Association in partnership with the Living Smart Farmers Market, the event features an Italian-themed market, live entertainment, local Italian food and wine, and cultural activities from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Zittel Family Amphitheater. The event is free and family-friendly. Special highlight: Paddleboarders dressed as gondoliers will paddle the American River at 10 a.m., visible from the Truss Bridge. To learn more and participate, visit www.folsom.ca.us/SisterCity. Sister City Celebration at PalladioPalladio at Broadstone | Friday, September 19 | 7 to 9 p.m.Join the festivities during Palladio's summer concert series with Italian-inspired treats, prosecco, festive décor, and participation from local merchants and restaurants. Folsom Public Library Programs Throughout September, the Library will feature Italian-themed activities, including: Adult Book Club – Thursday, September 11 at 11 a.m. | "My Brilliant Friend" by Elena Ferrante.Make It! – Thursday, September 18 at 3 p.m. | Build miniature cars using pasta-themed materials.Family Movie Matinee – Saturday, September 27 at 11:30 a.m. | Screening of Luca.Teen Culture Capsule – A collection highlighting Folsom's culture to share with peers in Pieve del Grappa. Italian-Inspired Activities Pieve del Grappa Tasting Menu at Back BistroFriday, September 19 | 6 to 7:45 p.m.Enjoy a three-course Italian tasting menu inspired by Folsom's Sister City. Reservations required. Murer House Cooking ClassesSeptember–October | Murer House, 1125 Joe Murer CourtLearn to make classic Italian dishes, including pasta, gnocchi, tiramisu, and more. Full schedule and registration details available at murerhousefoundation.org. For more information and the full schedule of events, visit www.folsom.ca.us/SisterCity.