Between the 1880s and 1910s, thousands of Italian immigrants streamed into places like Syracuse, Pittsburgh and Cleveland seeking the American Dream. Now many of their great-grandkids are moving south to Charlotte, a new epicenter of opportunity. That means authentic Italian food is finally a thing in the land of the meat-and-three. You can taste and discover at two different weekend festivals around the Queen City.

At the upscale end of the spectrum, check out Festa Italiana under the soaring canopy of uptown Charlotte’s Gateway Promenade. This Sunday afternoon, it fills with 10 restaurant chefs preparing Italian appetizers and risottos. Expect wine and – for your sweet tooth – cannoli and gelato. It’s all-you-can-eat for one ticket price, benefiting Charlotte’s Nevins Center.