The Howard Beach Columbus Day Foundation has confirmed that they will host a parade to celebrate Columbus Day this year, which will be held on September 29th. Festivities will begin at 157th avenue and travel down to 164th avenue.
The event has been a community favorite over the years but was not held last year. “Unfortunately, we were unable to hold the parade last year, but after the response we got, we knew we had to have it this year,” said President Mario Faulisi. He and treasurer Angelo Gurino say that bringing the parade back this year will help the neighborhood feel like everything is coming back to normal after the storm.
“There were a lot of things washed away in that storm,” said Gurino, “but the pride in our heritage was not one of them. This will be a great year.”
The parade is set to begin at noon on Cross Bay Boulevard at 157 avenue and will wend its way down to 164th Avenue where they will hold an Italian Festival featuring traditional food favorites and entertainment.
The foundation will host its annual gala on October 9 at Russo’s on the Bay.
Honorees for this year’s event include life-time Howard Beach resident Joann Ariola, Al Perna, Luiggi Moccia, Melinda Katz, and Peter Vallone Jr.
If you would like more information or would like to volunteer please call 718-641-3469.
