SPRINGFIELD — The Our Lady of Mount Carmel Italian Feast is back, kicking off tonight with a candlelight procession with a Mother Mary statue.
The procession starts at 8 p.m., the official start of the festival.
“Since 1897, generations have gathered in Springfield’s Historic South End to celebrate faith, family, food, and Italian heritage,” the society said on Facebook.
Saturday and Sunday events include live entertainment, including recording artist Giuseppe Leto from Italy; The Holy Cannoli 5K & 2-Mile Walk; authentic Italian food and pastries; rides, games, vendors, and Italian merchandise; and, back by popular demand: The World-Famous Grease Pole Competition.
Concetta Grimaldi attends the traditional vigil candlelight procession of Our Lady of Mount Carmel on Thursday in Springfield’s South End. (Don Treeger photo) Don Treeger photo
This year, the society also will roll out its first-ever Cannoli Eating Championship, presented by La Fiorentina. There will be a Vespa scooter raffle and a grand raffle featuring a $10,000 grand prize.
The all-ages event will hold the greased pole event on Sunday at 7 p.m.
The feast — first celebrated in the city about 129 years ago — returned last year after a 20-year hiatus.
The fair will take place on Winthrop and Main streets.
For information, sponsorships, vendors, volunteer opportunities, and raffle tickets, visit springfielditalians.org.
The event is presented by the Springfield Sons & Daughters of Italy.
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