The communities of Nutley and Belleville came together on Sunday, October 11th to stage their Columbus Day Parade for the 33rd year. The procession ran from Belleville High School on Passaic Avenue through Franklin Avenue, ending in Nutley. Overall, it was a spectacular event.
Families and friends gathered along the parade path to watch and cheer for the participants in the parade. Many of Belleville and Nutley’s public servants led the procession on this beautiful Sunday afternoon; followed by some goofy characters as well as some great organizations based out of the area. Even Batman took the time out of his extremely hectic crime-fighting schedule to visit the occasion.
About the Nutley-Belleville Columbus Day Parade
The parade, which was in honor of the Italian explorer Christopher Columbus, was also a celebration of the Italian heritage. Italian flags stood strong in the front of many homes, only bending from a persistent breeze. Families, students, mentors, and advocates marched through the parade, waving Italian flags and tossing candy to elated children in the crowd. One boy in the parade approached me and handed me a miniature Italian flag, which I waved proudly; just as the talented school bands played varieties of songs ranging from classics to The White Stripes.
The parade was a powerful event, bringing together towns who are neighbors but share more than just a geographical location. These policemen, firemen, and EMTs to students, teachers, and veterans—are passionate, devoted citizens in their everyday lives; and it is wonderful to watch their beaming faces; as they march through the streets of Belleville and Nutley in such a superb Columbus Day Parade.
All Photos: © Patrick Lombardi / Best of NJ