Feast of the Assumption

The intrusive construction that turned Little Italy's Mayfield Road into a one-way street for a month and a half has finished in time for the 120th annual Feast of the Assumption that takes place today through Saturday. Once again, Holy Rosary Church's parish hosts this free, family-friendly festival. Starting and ending with religious processions celebrating the Virgin Mary being taken into Heaven, the Feast includes classic festival staples as well as fireworks, a raffle, and observances and services for those who celebrate the Catholic Holy Day. Restaurants in the area as well as specialty vendors are set to have stands lining the streets, offering traditional Italian foods, desserts and beverages for purchase. Carnival rides and games, live music (including opera, Italian choirs and local bands) and a casino in the church's lower level are all available for entertainment during the fest. Since Mayfield Road from E. 125th St. to E. 119th St. is closed to vehicles during the fest, and relatively far-away parking spots are available for a fee, the best way to attend the festival is via the RTA red line's stop in Little Italy. The Feast's hours are noon to 11 p.m. today, 6 to 11 p.m. tomorrow, 6 p.m. to midnight on Friday and noon to midnight on Saturday. (Sarah Parr) holy-rosary.org.