Spicing Addison's entertainment scene will be the Little Italy Fest-West from Thursday through Sunday, Aug. 9 with 12, featuring former lead singers from power rock bands Journey and Boston, entertainers from New York and Las Vegas, homemade Italian food specialties, carnival rides and children's activities.

The smell of garlic and the sounds of Sinatra, Prima and Valli will fill the air of Centennial Park (Lake Street at Rohlwing Road, behind Marcus Cinema ), as the annual festival returns to create an outdoor Las Vegas supper club with national entertainment on three stages.

"One of the best things about our event is that much of the entertainment is unique and not seen anywhere else in the Chicago area," says Ron Onesti, producer. "Add amazing Italian food specialties, a clean, safe environment and a variety of family fun, and you have a party."

Village of Addison Mayor Larry Hartwig adds, "What Ron has brought to our community truly is something we can all be proud of. You don't have to be Italian to love this event."

Headliners include John Michael Coppola, former cast member of "The Jersey Boys," and singer James Darren, Moondoggie of "Gidget" fame, appearing with The Buddy Rich Big Band. The 16-piece orchestra features his daughter, Cathy Rich. The fest's lineup also features Louis Prima Jr. and The Bronx Wanderers.

New this year will be an extended rock stage featuring Steve Augeri, former lead singer of Journey, and Fran Cosmo, former lead singer of Boston. Local favorites Infinity, Bon Jovi tribute band Bad Medicine and Zeppelin tribute band Kashmir round out the lineup.

Catering to taste buds will be homemade, Little Italy-style small plates — from artichoke and parsley bruschetta to fresh pasta with pesto, pepperoni pies to lasagna rolls, tiramisu to gelato and funnel cake fries. New this year is a unique Italian soda bar, featuring a wide variety of imported flavors, including an effervescent strawberry and fresh basil combination along with a fresh mint/watermelon soda. Imported Italian beer, wines and spirits will be available at the Dean Martini Bar.

A full carnival, strolling children's entertainment, bocce courts and a Mass on Sunday complete the family experience. The $20, all-you-can-ride carnival wristband days are 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday; 3 to 7 p.m. Saturday; and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. Italian merchandise and crafts also are offered.

A special salute to State Reps. Angeklo "Skip" Saviano and Dennis Reboletti, Bloomingdale Township Trustee Sam Tornatore and Addison Village Clerk Lucille Zucchero is planned Saturday night. Their contributions to the community as Italian-American leaders will be recognized.

Admission to the festival costs $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, and is free to children 12 and younger. Thursday night is a free admission day. For the complete entertainment lineup and menu, visit www.oshows.com or call (630) 962-7000.