September 24, 2022

Taste of Italy returns to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish Oct. 1

REGIONAL
Staff report

SPRINGFIELD – After pandemic cancellations for the last two years, the Taste of Italy festival will return to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish in Springfield on Saturday, Oct. 1, from 4:30-8 p.m. at the South End Middle School auditorium at 36 Margaret St.

The Taste of Italy will offer over 30 favorite Italian main and side dishes from which to select for dinner and an exceptional dessert table. This celebration, part of Italian Heritage Month, will begin with Mass in the church on William Street at 4 p.m.

The event is the parish’s largest fundraiser and will include a Grand Raffle and 50/50 raffle, along with Italian music for entertainment. Food tickets will be sold at the door and parking is free. Takeout food will be available for purchase.

This year’s event is dedicated to the memory of committee members, cooks, and volunteers who have passed away since the last festival, including Anna Aucella, Jennie Barolucci, Judy Ceravolok, Stigmatine Father Anthony Corigliano, Katgy DeCaro, Renzo Frigo, Toni Garreffi, Nancy Hartman, Anne Napoli, and Al Romeo.

Food from different regions of Italy will reflect the heritage of parishioners. A dessert table will feature special pastries and Italian ice from JJ’s Soft Serve, Michele and Frank Montagna, as well as espresso and cappuccino from La Fiorentina, Anna and Leo Daniele. The Women’s Guild, the St. Vincent DePaul Society, and La Fiorentina will provide a pastry table (pasta dolce). Coffee and soft drinks also will be available.

Among the participating businesses are Albano Foods, Frank’s Package Store, JJ’s Soft Serve, La Fiorentina, Milano Imports, Mom & Rico’s, and Typical Sicilian Restaurant. The following are participating organizations: Mt. Carmel’s Women’s Guild, St. Vincent DePaul Society, and UNICO West Springfield.

Chairperson of the Taste of Italy festival is Rosemarie Rueli Costa. Stigmatine Father Robert White is the pastor of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish.