Columbus Parade Sunday

News release about Columbus parade

The 105th Columbus Day Parade, one of the longest continuous parades in the state with a record number of 80 units, steps off October 13th in Bridgeport in a celebration of Italian-American culture in the Greater Bridgeport area.

The parade begins at 1 pm in Bridgeport, starting at the corner of Wayne and Jewett Avenues and rolling south down Wayne Street to Madison Ave, finishing at Micalizzi’s Italian Ices store. Richard Iannucci has served as the parade chairman and helped organize more than 80 units that comprise the parade roster.

This year’s parade includes St. Joseph’s and Trumbull High Schools Marching Band, Bridgeport’s Park City Pride Alumni Drum & Bugle Corps, the Marine Corps League of Bridgeport and Stratford, and Port 5 Naval Veterans.

Chris Caruso, an officer of The Council of Italian-American Societies of Greater Bridgeport, pointed out that the parade has grown significantly from last year.

“Every year, the parade continues to grow,” Caruso said. “We owe a great deal to Mike Marella, our Grand Marshal, and Parade Chairman Rich Iannucci who both put in a lot of effort in bringing this parade to another level.”

This year’s parade will also feature large helium-inflated character balloons and more than eight floats, including Ringling Brothers clowns and performers, a 1915 antique car and will also march in the parade along with a confetti cannon. Habitat For Humanity Home of the Brave will take part with a float as well as a 1915 antique car.

Marella said: “The Columbus Day Parade is a great celebration for all Italian-Americans who have contributed so much to building the fabric of our country and the Greater Bridgeport area. I hope people come out and celebrate with us.”

Prior to the parade, a Pre-Show will take place, beginning at 11:30 am. The Pre-Show will feature Italian songs and arias, and Broadway show tunes at a staging area at Micalizzi’s Italian Ices at 712 Madison Avenue in Bridgeport.

Joseph A. Riccio, Pre-Show chairman, recommends getting in the celebratory mood by attending the free show that offers great entertainment and celebrates the richness of the Italian culture. At the Pre-Show, vendors will also serve food.

For more information about the Columbus Day festivities, visit www.celebratecolumbusbpt.com.