An estimated 15,000 people will attend this weekend’s Italian Feast and Carnival at the airport festival grounds in Venice. Festivities, with lots of food, live music, a bull machine, carnival rides and games by Great Southern Amusement Co., and a beer tent, began Thursday and continues through Sunday evening.

Past President Bruce Bastian, who headed the effort for the past eight years, handed responsibilities this year to his son, Jeff Bastian. Bruce Bastian said his favorite part of the festival remains sausage sandwiches of the Italian American Club of Venice’s. “I get it every year. They’re great. That line is always long,” he said.