Italian Heritage Celebrations Draw Crowds Across US Cities

San Francisco’s 158th Italian Heritage Parade drew thousands to North Beach during Fleet Week, with actor Joe Mantegna serving as grand marshal and local businesses benefiting from the crowds. Residents and former Mayor Willie Brown described the turnout as a sign that the city’s public life and businesses are recovering after the pandemic. In Worcester, the fifth Shrewsbury Street parade featured marching bands, local businesses and a returning soccer tournament, while Reno’s Great Italian Festival brought food, music and grape-stomping to downtown. Buffalo also hosted its 22nd annual Italian Heritage Parade on Hertel Avenue.