A little precipitation Monday could not dampen the spirits of those who lined sidewalks on State Street to watch floats, bands and performers in the Columbus Day Parade.
Along with the Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria, dozens of floats, primarily in Italy’s colors — red, white and green — sailed down the crowded street.
On either side of the street, umbrellas created canopies under which attendees enthusiastically waved miniature Italian and American flags.
Anna Bielak reached out her right arm, Italian flag in hand, and yelled greetings to the people riding on elaborate floats as rain dampened her uncovered head.
Bielak, who moved to the United States in 1969, said she loves the holiday and the celebration of Italian-American heritage.
“This day means liberty, it means a future for me and my family,” Bielak said. “I really thank God for this country.”
Bielak’s friend Angela Menolaschina said Columbus Day is one of her favorite holidays because it is a time she can remember her native country.
“I am proud to wave the flag. My blood still screams for Italy,” Menolaschina said.
A few blocks down, Angela Cinquepalmi stood with her daughter Domenica Diprizio and awaited the sight of Diprizio’s daughter Maria, who was a finalist for the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans’ Columbus Day Queen.
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Cinquepalmi and Diprizio, who grew up in Bari, Italy, said they enjoyed sharing Italian traditions with their family on Columbus Day.
“This is the land of opportunity, and we are very fortunate to be here and to live the American Dream. It may sound cliche, but it’s true,” Diprizio said.
Others did not have as strong a positive reaction toward the display or holiday.
Ashley Bohrer and Erica Friscioni happened upon the parade as they were walking around. Friscioni said she was disturbed by the event and what she believes it represents.
“The way schools romanticize (Christopher) Columbus and this day is really awful,” said Friscioni, 28.
As music blared from marching bands and Frank Sinatra tribute singers, Friscioni and Bohrer walked on quickly.
After two hours, the parade ended just before heavy rain came down on State Street.