From Puglia to the United States – the journey of the Italian American community finds a powerful symbol in the upcoming milestone for the Hoboken Italian Festival, which is preparing to mark its centennial in 2026.
The festival, grounded in the devotion of emigrants from the town of Molfetta and carried across the Atlantic, has become a bridge between regions, generations and cultures. The festival’s roots go back to the early decades of the 20th century when families from Molfetta settled in Hoboken, New Jersey.
They brought with them their devotion to the Madonna dei Martiri, the patron saint of their hometown, and the tradition of pilgrimage, procession and celebration that she inspired. Over time, the festival evolved into one of the largest Italian-American cultural gatherings in the region, a vibrant mosaic of music, food, faith and heritage.
Leading the charge in this cultural exchange is the association known as Oll Muvi, operating under the brand “I Love Molfetta”. Through its efforts, the organization has strengthened links between Puglia and the American communities of Italian descent. It has coordinated visits, culinary workshops, historical tours and events that highlight the shared memory of emigration and the enduring connection to roots. At the same time the Hoboken festival has embraced new generations, welcoming both the children of emigrants and those curious about Italian culture to take part in its joyful rituals.
Now, as the 100-year celebration draws near, planning is underway for a full slate of commemorative projects. From limited-edition rings and medals to special exhibitions, processions and cultural dialogues, the centennial aims to cast not only a look back at a legacy of celebration but also a forward toward how tradition adapts and persists in the twenty-first century.
More than just a festivity, the event stands as a living archive of history – of displacement, community building and identity formation. In a world of global movement, the Hoboken Italian Festival serves as a testament to how heritage travels, transforms and thrives. As the centennial approaches, it offers a moment for all those tied by the thread of Puglia-to-America migration to pause, reflect and rejoice in what has been accomplished – and to imagine what may come next.
