The 27th Annual Ocean County Columbus Day Parade will be held on Sunday, October 7 on the Boulevard in Seaside Heights, beginning at 1:00 pm. “The Parade has become one of the most ethnic in the State and is the highlight of the three-day Italian Festival,” stated Parade Chairman Michael Blandina. He continued “We work hard each year to make the Columbus Day Parade and Italian Festival better than the year before. The 27th Annual Parade and Festival is on the way to become the best yet.”
The Parade Committee has been working as hard as ever to make this year’s event even more memorable, exciting and enjoyable for all. The committee consists of band chairperson Phyllis Shindle; groups and organization co-chairs Millie Aprea and Isa Appignani; antique car chair Luigi Luongo and float chairman Hank Shindle.
“Many of your annual favorites will be returning and we will welcome new organizations and groups for the first time this year,” stated Blandina. “The Parade Committee is especially proud to bring new attractions each year from Italy, who are bringing a touch of the homeland to these events.”
This year we feature two groups coming for the first time, “La Citta’ di Agrigento” from Agrigento, Sicily, Italy and “La Tatarata” from Casteltermini, Sicily, Italy.
Anyone who is interested in Italian heritage and culture may join the Columbus Day Parade Committee and civic-minded individuals who are able to assist as a volunteer are always welcome. Any organization that wishes to participate should contact Michael Blandina at 732-477-6507.
