4th Annual Feast of Maria SS Lauretana in Niles, Illinois
The 4th Annual Feast of Maria SS Lauretana, held in Niles, Illinois, is a cherished tradition that brings together the community to celebrate Italian heritage and culture. This year, the festival took place over Labor Day weekend, from August 30th to September 2nd, near the Golf Mill Shopping Center. A Rich History The Feast of Maria SS Lauretana has deep roots, originating from the town of Altavilla Milicia in Sicily. The festival was brought to the United States by Italian immigrants and has been celebrated in the Chicago area since 900. It is one of the largest and longest-running Italian festivals in the region, drawing thousands of attendees each year. Festival Highlights The festival is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, featuring a variety of activities and entertainment for all ages. Here are some of the highlights from this year’s event: Food and Drink: Attendees enjoyed a wide array of Italian delicacies, including pasta, pizza, cannoli, and gelato. The beer and wine g...