Thousands gathered in West Harrison on Sunday as the community celebrated its fifth annual Italian Heritage Festival. When it comes to festivals throughout the Hudson Valley, the yearly event is one of the biggest. "I love the event, a wonderful bunch of people and its fun, celebrating Italian heritage," said Cesare Gazzola, of New Rochelle. With the Silver Lake neighborhood of West Harrison setting the stage for what was likely the biggest party of the weekend, there was no shortage of opportunities to meet up with old friends, enjoy some tasty dishes, or to dance like no one's watching. The festival is also a chance for local vendors and store owners to attract customers, both old and new. "My husband and my son work very hard in our business, Silver Lake Pizza, to prepare this food and it gives them so much satisfaction to see people enjoy it and to share our heritage, which is Italian-American," said restaurant owner Rita Santelia. The family-friendly get-together offers something for everyone and people of all ages are welcome to come and enjoy. Ten-year-old Brody Ryscik of Harrison agrees. "Personally, I love it. The food, the rides, everything about it is just fun," he added. First-time visitor John Stockhausen of Yonkers says he'll be back again next year. "The food. Got to come back for the food," he said.