By Forum Staff
City Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) and the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic Association on Sunday brought the annual Columbus Day Italian Festival back to Howard Beach.
Due to inclement weather, this year’s festival was held in St. Helen’s Father Dooley Hall, and featured performances from Nick the Balloonatic, Italian singer Nicolas Cage, Italian pastries and delicacies from Pasticceria La Torre, pumpkin picking and decorating.
Ariola reported that over 400 people turned out to celebrate.
Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola
A new farmer’s market made the celebration “a true fall festival,” as Alex Hoffman said.
“This festival reminds us that Italian-American culture is still alive and well, and through this event we are paying homage to all that our ancestors endured and built here in this country,” said Ariola. “Thank you to everyone who played a part in making Sunday’s event such a success, and thank you especially to everyone who came out despite the weather to celebrate with us.”
“The Columbus Day Fall Festival was a great community event where different groups, including our Home Academy Association, the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic Association, and Councilwoman Ariola, all came together to create a fun and festive atmosphere for the community,” added Alex Hoffman, who, along with Roe Barrella, Alison Abbruzino, and Rebecca DeLucia, is a member of the Home Academy Association. “We thought adding a farmer’s market and a haunted house would really complete the festivities and make it into a true fall festival, and we are glad we did! The reception was fantastic!”
