Brought to Boston by Italian immigrants from the small mountain town of Montefalcione, Saint Anthony’s Feast has been celebrated with the same European flair for the past 98 years.

As a born-and-bred native of the North End, Saint Anthony’s Feast Chairman Joe DiGirolamo has had a long association with New England’s largest Italian religious festival. “Every August it was a celebration of my heritage, culture and, of course, my religion. As a boy it was a hope to carry a flag or the statue of Saint Anthony.” After nearly 15 years in his current role helping organize this joyous celebration, it’s safe to say he has more than realized his childhood ambition.