The Italian American Alliance (IAA), led by CEO Dom Amara and President Jim DiStefano, will host the first annual Italian American Cultural Celebration on Monday, Oct. 10 (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) at The Tall Ship East Boston, 1 East Pier Drive, Pier One, in East Boston.
The event will celebrate Italian-American culture and feature Italian food, fun activities for families, and musical entertainment.
A major sponsor of the event is NIAF (National Italian America Foundation. Italia Unita is also a sponsor.
“It is our goal to promote and highlight our Italian legacy and the many contributions Italians have brought to this country,” said Dom Amara, IAA chief executive officer. “Our hardworking Italian immigrants were a strong piece in building America to what it is today. I, along with our children and grandchildren appreciate our ancestor’s struggles. We took what was taught to us through education and the installation of values to help us continue to contribute to many areas. Today we showcase our talents with music, arts, and cuisine.”
Lisa Capogreco Cappuccio, a long-time community leader and member of the event committee, expects a fun-filled celebration on the day that the Columbus Day Parade was traditionally held in East Boston for many years. The national holiday recognizes Christopher Columbus, the Italian explorer who discovered America in 1492.
“I felt we have to do something to celebrate Italian-American culture, and what better place than East Boston,” said Cappuccio.
“We welcome everyone from East Boston aand beyond to attend and enjoy this celebration.”
The event will showcase East Boston’s newest attraction, The Tall Ship, which boasts the most amazing views of the Boston Harbor/Skyline. Vendors will line up with Italian food. Children will be treated to special activities such as games (with prizes), a magician, face-painting, paper mâché building, and inter-active character performances with “Anna and Elsa.” Live musical entertainment will be provided by DJ Ross Zagami, Ray Cavicchio on the “Cavi-Chord,” Cory Pesaturo, world champion accordionist, and Boston’s premier Acapella group, Street Magic.
There will also be a wide variety of Italian specialties: brick-oven pizza by Montilio’s; sausages and more by The Sausage Guy; arancini, coffee and espresso by Brelundi; cannolis by Roma Bakery; limoncello baked goods and limoncello tasting by Fabrizia; Italian pastries, and so much more. Also, there will be cash bars on the premises. A variety of non-food vendors will also be on-site. Valet Parking is available. MBTA accessible on the Blue Line MBTA stop Maverick Station, one block down. Water Shuttle from Long Wharf directly to the Tall Ship (MBTA