Giglio Feast gets underway in Williamsburg
The Giglio Feast brought people from far and wide to celebrate the proud history of the neighborhood.
A tradition over 100 years old made its return to Williamsburg Sunday.
The annual Giglio raising at the Gilgio feast saw hundreds take to the streets as 7-foot tower was paraded up and down with cheerful music playing.
The festival also featured party games, classic Italian flair and food that included zeppole, fried dough and more.
"The tradition of the Giglio came to this parish in 1903 from Nola, Italy, and it's an organization or a tradition that celebrates the feast. St. Paulinus and the statue of him on the top and they brought that to here, to this community, but to many communities. But this is the one that still remains after over 100 years," said event organizer Reverend Monsigniore Jamie J. Gigantiello.
He told News 12 the event is a way for families who moved away from the area to reconnect, as well as new people to experience and enjoy italian culture.
"What we have here happened at one time in many areas and communities in the city. We are one of the few that are left and we've been here over 100 years, and it's wonderful to see everyone come back from Long Island and New Jersey and Connecticut that have moved away to come back and to celebrate this great tradition," Gigantiello added.
A second Giglio raising is set for Wednesday with a third and final raising on Sunday July 21.
