Westerly columbus day parade

Every October, the charming seaside town of Westerly, Rhode Island, comes alive with vibrant colors, cheerful crowds, and a spirit of community during its much-anticipated Columbus Day Parade. This annual event is one of the most cherished traditions in southern Rhode Island, celebrating Italian-American heritage, local pride, and the shared history that has shaped the town for generations. The Westerly Columbus Day Parade is not just a local event—it’s a cultural celebration that brings together families, organizations, schools, and visitors from across the region.

A Rich Tradition of Celebration

The Westerly Columbus Day Parade has been a staple of the community for decades, typically held on the Sunday of Columbus Day weekend. Organized by the Westerly-Pawcatuck Columbus Day Parade Committee, the event honors the legacy of Italian immigrants who settled in Westerly and neighboring Pawcatuck, Connecticut. These families brought with them their customs, work ethic, and love for community—values that continue to influence the area today.

The parade’s origins trace back to the mid-20th century, when Italian-American organizations, churches, and civic groups decided to host a local celebration in honor of Christopher Columbus, the 15th-century explorer whose 1492 voyage marked a turning point in world history. Over the years, the event evolved into something more inclusive—celebrating not only Italian heritage but also the town’s shared multicultural identity.

A Weekend Full of Festivities

While the parade is the main event, Columbus Day weekend in Westerly is a full-fledged celebration. The town buzzes with activity as restaurants, shops, and community centers host special events, live music, and family-friendly entertainment. Many visitors make a weekend trip out of it, taking advantage of Westerly’s beautiful fall weather and picturesque coastal scenery.

Leading up to the parade, the Columbus Day Ball is often held—a formal evening of dining, dancing, and awards recognizing community members who have made significant contributions to Westerly’s cultural and civic life. The ball often serves as a fundraiser to support the parade and related events.

Local businesses along High Street, Canal Street, and downtown Westerly decorate their storefronts with red, white, and green—the colors of the Italian flag. You’ll see flags waving, music playing, and the aroma of Italian food filling the air. It’s a time when the entire town comes together to honor tradition and have fun.

The Parade Itself: A Display of Pride and Unity

When parade day arrives, the excitement is palpable. The streets of Westerly and Pawcatuck are lined with enthusiastic spectators hours before the first float appears. Families bring chairs and blankets, children wave miniature flags, and vendors sell snacks and memorabilia.

The parade route typically begins in downtown Westerly and proceeds through the heart of town, crossing into Pawcatuck, Connecticut, symbolizing the close bond between the two neighboring communities separated only by the Pawcatuck River. This unique cross-state element adds a special touch to the event.

Participants include:

• Marching bands from local high schools and colleges, filling the streets with music and energy.

• Color guards and veterans’ groups, proudly carrying the American and Italian flags.

• Community organizations such as the Elks, Lions Club, and Knights of Columbus.

• Cultural groups, dance troupes, and performers in traditional Italian attire.

• Local schools and sports teams, riding floats and cheering as they go by.

• Firefighters, police departments, and first responders, honored for their service.

• And, of course, the parade’s Grand Marshal, a distinguished community member chosen each year for their contributions to Westerly and its people.

Every float and participant adds something unique to the event—whether it’s humor, creativity, or heartfelt representation of cultural pride. It’s not unusual to see antique cars, costumed performers, or even themed floats representing Italian history and family values.

Honoring Italian-American Heritage

While the Columbus Day holiday has faced changing interpretations over the years, the Westerly parade remains rooted in cultural appreciation and community unity. For many residents, it’s a way to honor their ancestors who emigrated from Italy seeking opportunity and built new lives in Rhode Island and Connecticut.

Westerly, like many New England towns, has deep Italian-American roots. Many of the families who first came to the area worked in local quarries, mills, and construction, helping to shape the physical and social landscape of the town. The parade celebrates that legacy—one built on hard work, family, and faith.

Italian music fills the air during the parade, with songs like “Funiculì Funiculà” or “That’s Amore” often played by marching bands or through loudspeakers. Local bakeries offer cannoli, biscotti, and Italian ices, and families gather for Sunday dinners after the festivities.

A Family and Community Event

What truly sets the Westerly Columbus Day Parade apart is its family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a day when generations come together—grandparents share stories of the past, parents enjoy the spectacle, and children experience the joy of community celebration. Many families have been attending for decades, making it an annual tradition to meet friends, take photos, and enjoy the day together.

Schools often play a big role too. Students march with pride, representing their institutions, while teachers and parents cheer from the sidewalks. Local youth organizations and scouts also participate, fostering civic pride in the next generation.

Beyond the cultural symbolism, the parade is also an opportunity for local businesses and charities to gain visibility and support. Food trucks, artisans, and vendors set up booths, offering everything from sausage sandwiches to handmade crafts. The economic boost to Westerly during the holiday weekend is significant, especially for restaurants and retailers downtown.

Community Spirit and Togetherness

In today’s fast-paced world, events like the Westerly Columbus Day Parade remind people of the importance of community and shared tradition. It’s a moment when political or social differences fade into the background, and everyone unites in celebration. The parade embodies the best of small-town America—volunteers working tirelessly, local sponsors donating funds, and residents showing up in full force to cheer on their neighbors.

For the Westerly-Pawcatuck area, this event is also about cross-community friendship. Though they are technically in different states, the two towns function as one in many ways, and the parade symbolizes that cooperation. Marchers crossing from Rhode Island into Connecticut highlight the unity and shared heritage that bind them together.

Looking Toward the Future

As the conversation around Columbus Day continues to evolve across the nation—with some cities and states recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead—Westerly’s celebration continues to adapt while maintaining respect for its traditions. Organizers have increasingly focused on promoting heritage, education, and inclusivity, ensuring that the event remains relevant for future generations.

There’s talk each year of expanding the festivities—perhaps adding cultural exhibits, live performances, or educational booths to teach about both Italian and Native American histories. This approach helps foster understanding while preserving the essence of what the parade has always stood for: celebration, respect, and community pride.