A Williamsburg parish officially began the 136th annual Our Lady of Mount Carmel Feast, a street festival full of Italian eats, music and games, with an opening mass and processional on July 5. The 12-day festival, which dates back to 1887, celebrates Italian culture and tradition with tons of vendors selling authentic cuisine and sweet treats, games and more.  

John Notaro, general festival chair, said the origins of the feast and special segment known as the Dancing of the Giglio began when Italian immigrants moved to Brooklyn and began introducing their traditions to the neighborhood. Notaro said the event has stood the test of time and has managed to uphold its tradition despite the demographic of the neighborhood changing over the years.