Feast of the Assumption

     The Feast of the Assumption is a big deal in Cleveland. Little Italy gets swamped during a weekend in August, Cleveland becomes all about consuming Italian food in the middle of August. This last one was the 116^th the Parish of the Holy Rosary has hosted on Mayfield Road. That's a whole lot of festivals and food.

The reason for the festival itself, which is meant to commemorate Mary being taken into heaven, is probably lost to many. It does start with a solemn mass at 10am on the first day of the festival, after which a statue of the Virgin Marry is carried throughout the neighborhood. For the entire festival there are candles outside the church during the entire festival, but for most Clevelanders it becomes about the food.

During the four days of festivities it is really all about food, unlike a lot of these festivals alcohol is not allowed outside the bars or restaurants so it can be very family friendly. Italian Foods, Pastries and deserts of all kind are sold as live music is played up and down the streets.

A number of independent vendors also have booths, which is odd as I dont associate an elephant ear stand or a Gyro stand with an Italian Festival. On the final evening of the Feast a candlelight procession is held to honor Mary. A short prayer service and fireworks conclude the festival.