SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) – An old tradition that recognizes Italian culture is returning to the city of Springfield this weekend for the first time in two decades. For the first time in over 20 years, the city isn’t just getting a taste of Italy. they’re getting a whole feast. “This is going to be the most authentic Italian feast that you can find,” said Chris DiMauro with the Springfield Sons and Daughters of Italy.
Since 1897, the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel has packed Winthrop Street in Springfield’s South End to share Italy’s finest traditions with the western Massachusetts community. Now, the Sons and Daughters of Italy is at the forefront of its return. While it’s been decades since the event has been held, it’s expected to draw people from all over once again. “Because it’s a community. People have been waiting for so long, over 20 years, to bring back the feast,” said Peter Stellato. “It’s gonna be a blast.”
Beyond the authentic Italian cuisine, the event will feature live entertainment, games, and rides for families and a competition that may get a little greasy. “The grease pole competition is open to anyone,” DiMauro noted. “Essentially, the whole pole’s covered in lard and they form a human ladder and people climb up people’s backs, so whoever can get to the top, grab the flag, grab the cash prize. There’s food, there’s beer, there’s all different types of prizes for the winning teams.”
The feast will be held both Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. There will also be a Mass held at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church before the event begins.
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