By Giulia Gionta
Zeppoles! Cannoli! Meatballs! The smell of sausage and peppers is in the air again as the town of Eastchester in Westchester County, New York, hosts its annual weekend-long celebration of Italian heritage and culture in honor of October’s Columbus Day.
The COVID-19 pandemic put a halt on festivities last year in 2020, but the Eastchester Columbus Day Celebration Committee was committed to bringing back their long-standing, beloved festival for the community to come out and celebrate together once again.
Tuckahoe grade schooler Emma Wray had her face painted as a butterfly. She attended with her parents and little brother. “My favorite part is the pink cotton candy and the swing ride that goes high up in the air,” she said.
Carnival grounds were free and open to everyone, even dogs. Rides and games were provided by Stewart Amusement Company and patrons could either purchase individual tickets as they wandered, or a wristband at $30 for all access on that night.
The fair’s several local sponsors advertised throughout the carnival on posters: Comizio Orthodontics, Jack’s Bar & Restaurant, and Berkshire Hathaway Home Services among others.
Eastchester Italian restaurant, Gigante, hosted sit-down food service for patrons with prior reservations beneath its custom heated white tent at the center of the fair. Italian themed vendors sold Italia pride merchandise; even the unique small business, Lefty’s Hand Rolled Cigars. Various food trucks offered delicious Italian food and desserts: Just Cannoli Bar, Mac’s Meatballs, Lucy’s serving sausage and peppers among other hot Italian food, and multiple zeppole suppliers!
Walking out of the carnival, a boy with his face painted like a panda bear hung his head over his father’s shoulder as he slept wrapped in his arms. Like so many other kids, he had a long night.
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