For four exciting days in mid-August, Massasoit Road will transform into a vibrant celebration of Italian culture. The Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Our Lady of Loreto Parish is hosting its annual Italian Festival, a cherished event that brings families together to share their heritage.
From August 14 to 17, the festival will offer plenty of fun. Gates open at 5 PM on the first two days and at noon for the weekend. Admission is just $2, and cash will be accepted at food stands. Families can also get all-day access to the bouncy house for $10, with an ATM onsite for convenience.
Expect a musical feast, featuring live performances from various bands, including Ambrosiani Italian Band and XS Band. When the bands are not playing, you can enjoy a mix of Italian American classics over the speakers.
The festival is not just for Italian Americans. It welcomes everyone. Organizer Michelina Portas notes, “Many families have been here for generations and want to celebrate their culture.” The festival teaches younger generations the traditional foods and dances. You might even catch a lively tarantella dance performed by the Dance Dazzlers troupe.
Cultural exchanges happen too. Festival chair Tom Annunziata highlights that recent immigrants often praise the food. It’s a point of pride that ties the old and new together. Imagine connecting with a couple from Italy, who hear the familiar flavors of home.
This year’s food offerings are broad. In addition to beloved dishes like sausage sandwiches and fried ravioli, you can find West African cuisine, adding an exciting twist to the festival menu. “You don’t have to be Italian to enjoy,” Portas says, emphasizing the event’s inclusivity.
As the festival grows, it carries the legacy of past gatherings. Annunziata recalls fond memories of festivals at the original Mount Carmel Church, a gathering place for the community. While the new venue at Loreto is smaller, they’re introducing fresh attractions. This year, boxing champion Danny Docimo will be engaging with children, and there’s a fun sneaker-themed raffle with custom artwork on the line—perfect for sneakerheads!
The proceeds benefit the parish’s food pantry, which serves many families. Annunziata aims to extend help beyond just the immediate neighborhood. “We want to reach people who can’t come to us,” he explains.
The Italian Festival is not just a celebration of food and music; it’s a chance for different cultures to mingle and share experiences. It’s an event that nurtures connections while honoring traditions.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Our Lady of Loreto Parish Italian Festival
- When: August 14-17
- Where: 30 Massasoit Road, Worcester
- Cost: $2
For more details, visit mtcarmelfestival.org.
Source link
Festivals,Italy,Cultural,dance,Worcester,,MA,Worcester,County,,MA,Italian,Cuisine,Overall,Positive,Food,\u0026,Beverage,Events,Cuisines,Events,\u0026,Listings,Local,News,Local,Affiliate,-,Arts,\u0026,Entertainment,Local,Affiliate,-,Food,Festivals,Italy,Cultural dance,Worcester, MA,Worcester County, MA,Italian Cuisine,Overall Positive,Food \u0026 Beverage Events,Cuisines,Events \u0026 Listings,Local News,Local Affiliate – Arts \u0026 Entertainment,Local Affiliate – Food
