Celebrating Columbus Day on 18th Avenue
Cristoforo Colombo Boulevard, also known as 18th Avenue, became the stage for Italian-Americans celebrating the 31st annual Columbus Parade in Bensonhurst.
It felt like summer on October 6 with temperatures well above 70 degrees as hundreds of spectators came out to make history and watch close to 50 groups march on a route that commenced at 60th Street and concluded at a stage set up at 84th Street. Antique cars and red, white and green banners, flags and festoons dominated the strip.
Bravo for keeping our Italian heritage alive, exclaimed Carlo Scissura, the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerces new president, from the stage, while congratulating the participants. School groups like Bishop Kearneys marching band put on a special performance, and members of the Congrega Maria ss. Addolorata waved at the standing crowd that gathered.