All are welcome to attend for a weekend of food, games, vendors, and entertainment, including live music throughout the day on Saturday and Sunday. This year’s headlining entertainment includes a Saturday performance by Louis Prima Jr. and the Witnesses, taking the stage at 8pm. The performance is sponsored by Lois and Richard Nicotra. Rounding out the weekend on Sunday will be a live performance from Staten Island’s own Charlie Romo at 6pm, who will perform hits made famous by Italian and Italian-American musicians and/or songwriters.
Over the course of the three-day event, guests will be able to enjoy rides and attractions, carnival games, vendors, and delicious food, including a Cannoli eating contest sponsored by Mark's Bake Shoppe on Sunday.
On Saturday, there will be educational displays from local cultural groups, including the Garibaldi-Meucci Museum, the National Lighthouse Museum, Casa Belvedere, Snug Harbor Cultural Center, Historic Richmond Town, the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art, and the St. George Theatre. More will be announced soon.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Catholic Charities to present a festival that celebrates so many aspects of Italian and Italian-American culture,” noted Borough President Oddo. “It truly will be the biggest Columbus Day celebration in our borough’s history. All are welcome to join in the fun, enjoy some tasty treats, learn about our history, and listen to world class music this Columbus Day weekend.”
Admission will be a $5 donation for adults. Children under 12 will be admitted free. Proceeds raised from the event will benefit the programs at Mount Loretto. Parking will also be free for the event.
“It’s a privilege to join forces with my good friend and Borough President Jim Oddo,” said Vincent Ignizio, CEO of Catholic Charities of Staten Island. “We’ve made this event even bigger than last year and are looking forward to celebrating Columbus Day with the Staten Island community.”
Limited vendor and sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information, visit mountloretto.org, text the word “MOUNT” to the number 313131, or call (718) 490-5023.