Summer in Boston’s oldest neighborhood means one thing—it’s time to celebrate Italian-style with the various feasts and processions that take over the area’s ancient, cobblestoned streets. Brought to these shores decades ago by the waves of Italian immigrants that populated the North End beginning in the early 20th century, these religious festivals honor various saints with parades, Italian specialties and an overall festive atmosphere that locals and visitors alike anticipate with great joy. After several procession-only ceremonies that take place early in the summer, the first full-blown block party takes place July 25–27 when the Saint Joseph Feast comes to life for its 100th anniversary. This is followed by the St. Agrippina di Mineo Feast (July 31–August 3) and the Madonna Della Cava and St. Rocco’s feasts (both August 3–8). The oldest and one of the largest of its kind, the 115th annual Fisherman’s Feast takes place August 14–17 and features the thrilling Flight of the Angel, a tradition in which a child is lowered from a third-story window to greet the statue of the Madonna that is carried through the North End’s thoroughfares. Next is another grand shindig, the 106th annual Saint Anthony’s Feast (pictured, which kicks off with the one-day companion Feast of Santa Lucia) that takes over Endicott, Thacher and North Margin streets from August 28–31 with processions of the patron saint’s statue, live bands and cooking demonstrations, as well as pizza, pasta, arancini, cannoli and more from nearly 100 vendors. The fun doesn’t end there, as the season winds down with the San Gennaro Feast September 5–7, a finale of food and family entertainment sure to satisfy all comers.
