One of Brooklyn’s most iconic events returned last week after a year off due to COVID-19. The annual Feast of Santa Rosalia began Aug. 19 on 18th Avenue – a/k/a Cristoforo Colombo Boulevard – from 67th Street to Bay Ridge Parkway. The 10-day event features rides, music, games for the kids, drinks and food.

Bensonhurst resident Paul Gordon said the event’s return is important to local history and culture. “It’s great to see not only Italian-Americans, but people of all races and demographics together enjoying the feast at a time when it is needed so much as also a means and form of social gathering and togetherness,” Gordon said.