Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue is preparing to welcome the 82nd annual Columbus Day Parade on Monday, bringing an Italian-American heritage celebration to one of New York City’s best-known avenues.
The parade is scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., between 47th and 72nd Streets, with more than 100 groups participating. Marching bands, floats and musical performances will highlight Italian Americans’ contributions to the United States.
This year’s celebration also marks 250 years of Italian contributions to America, according to local coverage. The event brings that theme into a public celebration of community identity and cultural achievement.
Residents and visitors should prepare for traffic restrictions extending beyond the main parade area. Notify NYC has announced closures on Fifth Avenue between East 42nd and East 79th Streets, at the discretion of the NYPD. Travelers heading through Midtown and the Upper East Side should allow extra time and check current traffic advisories before setting out.
For viewers unable to attend, ABC7 New York is scheduled to provide television and streaming coverage beginning at noon, offering a way to follow the festivities away from the crowds.
