The annual Columbus Day Parade in Howard Beach at one time drew thousands. Throughout the pandemic, however, the festivities were on a hiatus until last year, when a last-minute celebration ended up drawing an unexpected 200 people. So this year, the Howard Beach Columbus Day Foundation teamed up with Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) to do it right. 

Instead of a parade, the Festival Italiano will take place this Sunday, Oct. 9, on Cross Bay Boulevard between 158th and 159th avenues. The boulevard will be closed for music, entertainment, food and more. It will begin at 1 p.m. when restaurants will be setting up food and then the music will go from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. The masters of ceremonies will be radio personality Joe Causi and singers Carmelo Raccuglia, also known as “The Pizza Dude,” and Enzo Venuto.