The OLMC Feast, also known as the Feast of the Giglio, has been a staple event for the Italian American community in New York since 1887. Originating in the town of Nola in the Campania region of southern Italy, the Nolani immigrants who would eventually move to the United States carried this tradition with them as they settled in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Back then, the feast acted to bring back fond memories of the motherland as these Italians assimilated to their new way of life. Now, it brings together Italians and non-Italians alike in this large celebration of culture, tradition, and faith.
What is the history behind the OLMC Feast?
The feast began to honor the patron saint of Nola, San Paolino, who is held in high regard by the Nolani for the bravery he displayed during a horrific event in 410 AD. North African pirates had invaded the town of Nola and, while Paolino was initially able to flee into the countryside, later became aware that many young men were abducted and enslaved. In an act of pure selflessness, Paolini offered himself to the pirates in exchange for one of the young boys who were taken, becoming their prisoner as a result. A Turkish sultan later freed the Bishop after being moved by his compassion and, upon his return, Paolino was met by the entire town carrying lilies, symbolic of love and purity, in recognition of his sacrifice.
Today, the lilies (gigli) have evolved into a larger-than-life wooden structure covered in flowers and religious symbols that is paraded throughout the surrounding streets of the Shrine Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel known as the Giglio Tower. Standing around 80 feet tall, the tower is ceremoniously lifted by over 100 men with a statue of Paolino sitting at the very top as music fills the crowd cheering them on in what is known as the Giglio Lift.
This was originally known as the Giglio Feast but, in 1958, it was combined with the feast honoring Our Lady of Mount Carmel, transforming into a spirited festival complete with food vendors, rides, games, and daily entertainment.
Where is the 2024 OLMC Feast?
The annual feast takes place in Williamsburg, Brooklyn around the Shrine Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. The church is located at 275 N 8th St, while the feast will be held along the neighboring streets.
When is the 2024 OLMC Feast?
The official feast dates are from Wednesday, July 10th, to Sunday, July 21st. Weekday festivities will take place Monday through Friday from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. However, the weekend hours are a bit different, running from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM on Saturdays and 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Sundays.
In terms of the live entertainment and main attractions schedule, the dates and times for each act can be found on the official OLMC Feast calendar. Additionally, you can find the feast day schedule for Our Lady of Mount Carmel here.
What to eat at the 2024 OLMC Feast?
No Italian festival would be complete without sausage & peppers from Lucy’s. As they say: Lucy’s hot, Lucy’s sweet, Lucy’s sausage can’t be beat. From there, you would be wise to swing by Dee Best to satisfy your sweet and savory needs with their popular zeppoles and fried calzones.
For additional information, please refer to the OLMC Feast website.
