Question: What's the Italian Heritage Parade?
Answer:
The nation’s oldest Italian Heritage Parade and the city of San Francisco’s oldest civic event. Highlights will include:
When and Where:
For 2008, October 12th. It’ll be the parade’s 140th edition and more than 400,000 revelers are expected. Beginning at the foot of Jeffereson and Stockton Streets in Fisherman’s Wharf, the parade will wind through North Beach on Columbus Ave. and end at Washington Square Park, in front of Sts. Peter and Paul Church.
Admission:
Free. Catch a glimpse of the parade all along its route, then make your way to Washington Square Park for an afternoon of family and kids activities. For the visitor, it’s a great way to experience the “flavor” of the city’s Little Italy.
Parking and Getting There:
Public transportation is encouraged:
First held in 1869, the Italian Heritage Parade celebrates the accomplishments and culture of all Italians and Italian Americans. At the very first get-together, the parade took place in San Francisco’s downtown and featured local Italian-Americans, much like it does today. Four floats were showcased, each contributing to the theme of Christopher Columbus, with the first float carrying a statue of the famed explorer; the second float, two girls representing Queen Isabella and America; and the third being the “Santa Maria.” The fourth float was in honor of the Italian garderners and their agricultural achievements, helping to make America bloom and grow.
In addition:
There are a few other events that always go hand-in-hand with the parade. If you’re in town and would like to attend, keep in mind these dates for 2008:
The nation’s oldest Italian Heritage Parade and the city of San Francisco’s oldest civic event. Highlights will include:
- dozens of handcrafted floats designed by Bay Area businesses, community groups, and Italian organizations
- marching bands
- high school Italian clubs representing
- an appearance by “Christopher Columbus” and Queen Isabella and her Court
- appearances by Bay Area Italian celebrities
- traditional Italian music and performance
- outdoor dining specials from North Beach restaurants lining the route; watch the parade as you dine alfresco
When and Where:
For 2008, October 12th. It’ll be the parade’s 140th edition and more than 400,000 revelers are expected. Beginning at the foot of Jeffereson and Stockton Streets in Fisherman’s Wharf, the parade will wind through North Beach on Columbus Ave. and end at Washington Square Park, in front of Sts. Peter and Paul Church.
Admission:
Free. Catch a glimpse of the parade all along its route, then make your way to Washington Square Park for an afternoon of family and kids activities. For the visitor, it’s a great way to experience the “flavor” of the city’s Little Italy.
Parking and Getting There:
Public transportation is encouraged:
- MUNI connectors from all BART stations
- Powell-Mason/Powell-Hyde cable car lines will take you to Fisherman’s Wharf, just a few blocks from the parade
First held in 1869, the Italian Heritage Parade celebrates the accomplishments and culture of all Italians and Italian Americans. At the very first get-together, the parade took place in San Francisco’s downtown and featured local Italian-Americans, much like it does today. Four floats were showcased, each contributing to the theme of Christopher Columbus, with the first float carrying a statue of the famed explorer; the second float, two girls representing Queen Isabella and America; and the third being the “Santa Maria.” The fourth float was in honor of the Italian garderners and their agricultural achievements, helping to make America bloom and grow.
In addition:
There are a few other events that always go hand-in-hand with the parade. If you’re in town and would like to attend, keep in mind these dates for 2008:
- Sept. 12: Fundraiser Dinner
- Oct. 4-5: Madonna del Lume Celebration
- Oct. 11: Grand Ball
- Oct. 12: The Italian Heritage Parade
