Long-awaited and much-anticipated even in so-called “normal” times, the feasts and processions of the very Italian North End of Boston are summer staples that are not to be missed. Several of these religious-based processions dedicated to individual saints have already taken place, yet the ones with the aromatic, beloved street festivals surrounding the proceedings are just getting underway.

While these cannoli- and sausage-filled celebrations all have much in common—including the parading of holy likenesses through the North End’s narrow lanes, which are lined with food vendors selling everything from arancini to calamari—each event has its own unique features and traditions.