ARA Delco is formed by men and women of Italian birth, Americans of Italian descent and many others just interested in the Italian culture and language. We are located in Delaware County and invite all those who may be interested in our activities and goals to join us. L’Associazione Regionale Abruzzese Delco is very active in our local community!
Offerings Include:
Italian American Heritage Festival — Our organization has been a major contributor and sponsor to the “Italian American Heritage Festival” held annually in Rose Tree Park the first Sunday of June.
(NEW!) Folsom Italian Festival - ARA Delco is proud to announce the Second Annual Folsom Italian Festival, held at the Folsom Firehouse. This event will serve as a fundraiser for the Don Guanella and Divine Providence communities, as well as the Italian Cultural Center of the Delaware Valley, and the Folsom Fire Co. Headed by Gianni DiMatteo and Lauren Christy, this event will feature wonderful food, wine, and entertainment from the Folsom community. Please join us on March 28, 2026!
Read about the First Annual Folsom Italian Festival here: https://www.delcotimes.com/2025/03/31/inaugural-folsom-italian-festival-brings-community-together-in-celebration/
Italian Cinema Night— Free Italian Movies the last Wednesday of each month! This program is under the direction of Dr. Thomas Benedetti, Professor of the Italian Program, at Widener University.
Italian Cultural Center of the Delaware Valley — We are very proud to present the ICCDV to preserve and celebrate the history of the Italian people of the Delaware Valley. Come visit us at 97 Wanamaker Ave, Essington, PA 19029.
Bocce Club — We are thankful to Monsignor Ralph for allowing us to use St. Mary Magdalen's parish property for our new bocce courts. Bocce Club Members meet every Friday evening for bocce, fun, food, and camaraderie with friends.
Italian Radio Program — ARA is proud to sponsor Tune in Sundays at 9:00AM for “Mattinata Musicale” on AM Radio “WTEL 610” (formerly WIP 610). Hosted by Melissa Cannavo-Marino. For those in/near Wilmington, Melissa also hosts “Mattinata Musicale” AND “Radio Italian Style” on AM Radio “WILM 1450” each Sunday morning at 8:00AM.
Italian Language & Culture Club — This program is offered to the 7th & 8th grade students of St. Mary Magdalen Elementary School in Upper Providence, PA.
Mass in the Italian Language — We are blessed to have Monsignor Ralph Chieffo of St. Mary Magdalen Parish (Upper Providence) celebrate Mass in the Italian language for us on a quarterly basis. Always an event so dear to our hearts!
Annual Dinner Dance — A most festive celebration complete with dinner, dancing, and recognition of a local individual(s) who contributes to the fostering of the Italian Culture and Language in the United States.
Annual Christmas Party — Fun-filled afternoon complete with live music, buffet dinner, and visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus! Kids enjoy gifts, fun, dancing, and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus!
Annual Don Guanella Fundraiser — Join us for an afternoon of music, buffet dinner – all for a great cause! To raise funds for Don Guanella’s Outreach Program and for ARA's own Scholarship Fund.
Scholarship Program — Annual recognition of young individuals who demonstrate special interest in the Italian Language and Culture. This program supports the inclusion of Italian youth in our community!
Youth Soccer — ARA is proud to be the sponsor of a youth soccer team in the in the Aston Soccer League.