Political leaders got an early start Thursday on celebrating Columbus Day, announcing plans for this weekend’s parade honoring the explorer and to celebrating Italian history.
Huntington Supervisor Chad A. Lupinacci, and other town, Suffolk County and state officials gathered at Town Hall with the New York Grand Lodge, Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America.
Participating in Friday’s celebration were Lupinacci, Town Clerk Jo-Ann Raia, Town Council members Ed Smyth and Joan Cergol, Suffolk County Legislator William “Doc” Spencer, and State Assemblyman Andrew Raia.
The parade on Sunday starts at noon, heading west on Main Street from Park Avenue.The theme for the parade is “The Year of the Women.”
Members of more than 24 lodges in Nassau and Suffolk will march in the parade, which coincides with the annual Long Island Fall festival at Heckscher Park. The festival opens Friday evening and runs through Monday.