2 days ago
Newly restored Italian social club in Springfield to cut ribbon tonight; ‘La Festa' returning
SPRINGFIELD — A ribbon cutting will be held tonight at 6 for Casa Italiana, the newly restored Italian social club in the heart of Springfield's South End.
The club is at 13 Winthrop St. The event will feature Mayor Domenic Sarno and many other community activists and leaders, celebrating the rebirth of a historic property and the revitalization of a cultural institution to many in the Italian American community throughout the region.
The Springfield Order of the Sons & Daughters of Italy also will announce the official return of the Italian Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, set to take place on July 12 and 13 in the streets of the South End.
There has not been 'La Festa' in the neighborhood for 20 years. Once a celebrated annual social and cultural gathering, many have hoped for a return of this decades-old tradition.
'It took a lot of work. It will take a lot more work. But the revitalized organization has the dedicated volunteers and new leadership to make this a success,' organizers said in a statement.
Casa Italiana is now home to the St. Padre Pio 3013 Sons & Daughters of Italy and the Societa della Madonna del Carmine.
Founded in 1897, this historic club has been a cornerstone for the Italian community in Springfield. Now, under new leadership, it is being brought back to life with a bold new vision — to celebrate, preserve and pass on Italian heritage for generations to come.
Read the original article on MassLive.
