Our Lady of Mount Carmel Feast returns to Williamsburg
The festivities included the “dancing of the Giglio,” where about 100 men lift a four-ton, 70-foot structure into the summer sky.
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The Our Lady of Mount Carmel Feast returned to the streets of Williamsburg.
Now in its 139th year, the tradition honored the Catholic faith and Italian heritage.
The festivities included the “dancing of the Giglio,” where about 100 men lift a four-ton, 70-foot structure into the summer sky.
It honors Saint Paulinus, a fifth-century bishop from Nola, Italy.
“It’s faith, family, tradition,” said Joe Cicileo, of Williamsburg.
Cicileo served as this year’s “No. 1 capo,” who is the leader of the lifters.
“I went to school here,” said Cicileo. “So, I’ve been a part of this feast since I've been in school.”
For many, the feast has been part of their families for generations.
Paul Modano said this was his second year lifting. He’s following in the footsteps of his father, who participated in the 1990s.
“My family is from this neighborhood, and I’m just happy to be here and carry on the tradition,” said Modano. “I hope to do it for a very long time.”
Lifters said their Catholic faith plays a big part in the Catholic community.
“The church is definitely, for us Italians, a very big part of this neighborhood and what it used to be; and I feel like, when this time comes around, everyone comes back,” said Modano.
