The East Boston Italian American Heritage Parade Committee held a fundraiser Sunday, Aug. 30 at the Beachmont VFW in Revere.
The guests enjoyed a delicious barbecue luncheon buffet and desserts along with music by DJ Jimbo.
Joseph Ruggiero Sr., chairperson of the committee, thanked the many guests for supporting the event whose proceeds go toward the parade (formerly the Columbus Day Parade named in honor of the famous Italian explorer Christopher Columbus who is credited with discovering America in 1492).
Ruggiero said the parade will be held on Sunday, Oct. 11 beginning at Suffolk Downs at 1 p.m.
“We will have 40 antique cars and the fire department to start the parade, and then we’ll come out of Suffolk Downs and head to Saratoga Street through Day Square, stay on Chelsea Street, and then take a right around Maverick Square and proceed to the bandstand across from the post office,” said Ruggiero.
Ruggiero is being assisted on the parade committee by Nick Moulaison and John Zirpolo.
“Buddy Mangini, Jim Kearney, and I were coordinating this parade for years,” said Ruggiero. “When Buddy and Jim passed away, I felt we had to give those two gentlemen a tribute one more time, so there will be banners on the parade route honoring these two outstanding community leaders.”
East Boston High School Principal Phil Brangiforte is the grand marshal. The parade will also recognize veteran George Gambale, who is the honorary grand marshal.
Nine bands will perform in the parade, while the world renowned international vocal group, The Platters, will make a special appearance.
The last Columbus Day Parade was held in 2019 before the COVID-19 global pandemic forced officials to cancel the event in 2020.
