Ocean County Columbus Day Parade & Italian Street Festival
The Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Committee is a dedicated group of volunteers committed to preserving and celebrating Italian American heritage, culture, and traditions throughout Ocean County, New Jersey.
Since its founding, the Committee has grown the Ocean County Columbus Day Parade and Italian Street Festival into one of the largest Italian American celebrations in New Jersey. Each year, thousands of residents and visitors gather in Seaside Heights to enjoy a weekend filled with cultural pride, family entertainment, live music, delicious food, community spirit, and one of the region's premier Columbus Day parades.
Our mission extends beyond the annual celebration. Throughout the year, the Committee works to promote Italian American culture, recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to our community, and support charitable and educational initiatives that benefit local residents.
One of our proudest accomplishments is our scholarship program, which provides financial assistance to deserving Ocean County high school seniors pursuing higher education. Through the generosity of our sponsors, supporters, and community partners, we continue to invest in the next generation while honoring the values of hard work, family, faith, and service that have long defined the Italian American experience.
The Committee is made up entirely of volunteers who dedicate countless hours to planning events, fundraising, securing sponsorships, and coordinating the many activities that make our celebration possible. Their passion and commitment have helped create a lasting tradition that brings people of all backgrounds together in a spirit of unity and community.
Today, the Ocean County Columbus Day Parade and Italian Street Festival welcomes more than 85,000 attendees over three days, serving as a showcase of Italian heritage while supporting local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and educational opportunities throughout Ocean County.
We invite you to join us as a participant, sponsor, volunteer, donor, or attendee. Together, we can continue to celebrate our rich heritage, strengthen our community, and ensure that this cherished tradition continues for generations to come.
Grazie for your support and for being part of the Ocean County Columbus Day Parade family.
About the Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Committee
2025
Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Committee
Front Row Left to Right:
John Giavatto, Lisa Oliveri, Phyllis Shindle
Marlene Mango, Pamela Santamaria, Luigi Luongo
Back Row Left to Right:
Danny Waleski, Hank Shindle, Joseph Forrester
Michael A. Blandina - Chairman, John Salemi Jr.,
Vincent Craparotta III, Dominick Pisarro, Tony Altilio