Brooklynites took to the streets on Saturday to celebrate Italian heritage in Bensonhurst at the 38th Annual Brooklyn Columbus Day Parade.
The cavalcade featured costumed characters, marching bands, Italian music, and a sea of Italian flags.
“It was a beautiful parade,” said Lucrezia Nardulli, President of Figli Maria Addolorata, an Italian–Catholic social club.
Nardulli marched in the parade dressed as Befana, the so-called “Christmas Witch” of Italian folklore, who delivers gifts to children on Epiphany Eve, which falls on Jan. 5.
The Figli Maria Addolorata president said the procession brought together people from all corners of Bensonhurst, including several schools, civic associations and bands. But what’s most important to her is the continuation of traditions Italian Americans have held dear for generations.
“The meaning of all this is to keep our tradition together,” said Nardulli. “And tradition is not only for Italians, it’s for all the countries in the world.”
