The Crown
Via Roma Event Center will host the not-to-be-missed 26th Annual Casa Italia Foundation Miss Italia of Ohio Pageant on Sunday, October 12.
Among the many events Via Roma Event Center will host this fall is the 26th Annual Casa Italia Foundation Miss Italia of Ohio Pageant. This coveted crown will go to one lucky contestant on Sunday, October 12. Maria Di Fiore is the reigning Miss Italia. She is pictured with her father, Via Roma Co-Owner Tony Di Fiore.
October is Italian American Heritage Month. While we celebrate the cultural contributions of this vibrant group, from arts and science to, of course, the incredible culinary traditions, Via Roma Event Center & Ristorante is honoring Italian Americans by hosting the 26th Annual Casa Italia Foundation Miss Italia of Ohio Pageant on Sunday, October 12.
We caught up with Carmelina Di Fiore to find out more. She’s a founding member of the Casa Italia Foundation, the group that runs the event. Based in Fairview Park, this nonprofit was formed in 1990 to promote Italian culture through language classes for children and adults, trips to shrines and points of interest, cultural celebrations, summer camps, dinner dances, picnics and holiday parties.
“This pageant is not a beauty contest; it’s a fun family event meant to showcase the amazing accomplishments of our contestants,” says Carmelina, who came to this country at age 14. “The reigning Miss Italia, my granddaughter Maria, said in her acceptance speech how much it meant for her to celebrate her heritage and why the family immigrated from Italy 70 years ago. We came here because of the opportunities that America meant to us.”
Five judges ask questions of the contestants. After Miss Italia is crowned, she can enjoy a bit of celebrity as an ambassador throughout her year, joining parades, festivals and events.
Maria says the last year has been a whirlwind. “I grew up attending the pageants and thought it would be a nice way to connect with my family. It also means a lot to me to be a role model to other Italian Americans and transcend the generations.”
Via Roma President and Co-Owner Tony Di Fiore says it’s been an honor to host past Miss Italia events at his sister restaurant, the Aviator, and he’s especially proud to bring it to Via Roma this year.
Halloween to Holidays
There are also happenings in the other spaces at Via Roma. Tony says excitement is already mounting for the Halloween Pop-Up Bar, coming soon to The Grotto.
“We go all out with the spooky décor,” he says. “And our bar staff is already coming up with Halloween-themed drinks and menu items.”
Not too long after Halloween comes down, the Christmas Pop-Up Bar decorations go up.
The Grotto’s cool vibe and state-of-the-art acoustics, stage and dance floor also make it the ideal spot to enjoy live music on weekends. You’ll hear a variety of styles, from country to disco, Motown and classic rock. Check out ViaRomaCLE.com for the list of upcoming musical acts.
He says they are already booking up for holiday parties and that it’s not too early to secure your date.
“Companies, families or groups can book the whole grotto, which is perfect for up to 140 people,” he says. “We also have the Grand Ballroom, Florence Room and Cantina Wine Cellar for memorable events.”
Amazing Wedding Venue
Heading into the holidays, when so many couples get engaged, the wedding planning begins. The first and most important decision is venue.
Via Roma has earned a reputation as the perfect place to throw lavish weddings.
“Bigger events are ideal in our grand ballroom, which seats up to 350 guests, has a private entrance and stunning chandelier, gold chain backdrop wall and elegant décor,” says Tony. “Our Florence Room suits smaller weddings for up to 130 guests. If couples want something different, they can throw their wedding within The Grotto on our lower level. And for more intimate micro-weddings, we’ve also had couples rent our Cantina Wine Cellar for up to 20 guests.”
He says today’s engaged people are busier than ever and like having someone else do the planning work.
“Our wedding planning team can do it all, from tables and chairs to linens and centerpieces, the cake, lighting, music and photography,” says Tony. “We’re like wedding planners without the wedding planner expense. Every detail is taken care of, and the bridal party can hang out in the Bridal Suite before and during the wedding. It comes complete with a vanity for primping and a fridge, all with a laid-back lounge vibe.”
Via Roma is located at 8922 Ridge Road, in North Royalton. Book your holiday parties and reserve your table at ViaRomaCLE.com or call 440-672-7662. The Casa Italia Foundation is accepting new members. Visit Casa-Italia-Foundation.com for more information.
26th Casa Italia Foundation Miss Italia of Ohio Pageant
On Sunday, October 12, 2025, from 1-5 p.m., Via Roma Event Center is hosting the 26th Annual Casa Italia Foundation Miss Italia of Ohio Pageant in its Grand Ballroom. Sponsored by Russo Law and Associates, the event is a celebration of classic Italian fare, music, raffle baskets and the excitement of watching the contestants compete, judging take place, and the 2025 winner named.
Ticket donation is $65 per person, $20 for children 10 and under, free for 5 and under. To purchase tickets, call Carmelina Di Fiore at 216-650-0141, Margaret Montemarano at 440-476-7768 or Carmela Russo at 440-454-0062.
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