CLEVELAND, Ohio — In Cleveland’s Little Italy, August means more than just summer heat. It’s the time when the scent of garlic and the sound of hymns mingle in the air, and people gather shoulder-to-shoulder for one of the neighborhood’s oldest traditions: the Feast of the Assumption.
Now in its 126th year, “The Feast” draws thousands to Mayfield and Murray Hill roads from Thursday, Aug. 14 through Sunday, Aug. 17. What began as a solemn Catholic observance of the Virgin Mary’s ascent to heaven has grown into a four-day neighborhood festival combining religious devotion and street party.
At the heart of the celebration is Holy Rosary Church. On Friday, Aug. 15, parishioners and visitors crowd inside for a 10 a.m. solemn Mass. Then, in a ritual unchanged for generations, the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary will be carried through the narrow streets.
The Feast’s appeal goes beyond the sanctuary doors. Italian staples—from cavatelli to cannoli—share the stage with live music and bustling patios. This year, Tutto Carne is adding a smoky twist with short ribs grilled on-site for Italian beef sandwiches, while Mount Granita is layering mint mojito, lemon, and strawberry ices into “Feast Pops” with the colors of the Italian flag.
The tradition is also a fundraiser. Proceeds from Holy Rosary’s activities support Catholic school tuition for parish children and maintain the historic church itself.
For some, the event is a pilgrimage. For others, it’s simply a chance to taste pizza by the slice from Cent’Anni and feel the pulse of a neighborhood where history and heritage are served with every plate.
Parking, as always, is tight—an unspoken reminder that in Little Italy during The Feast, it’s best to bring patience along with your appetite.
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Dining and Cooking