New Jersey Town Celebrates Best Italian Music at Carnevale
Costumes were encouraged at the Sicilian Carnevale held at St. Augustine Preparatory School in Richland, New Jersey. The event featured the best Italian music performed live by the band Idea 71, along with dancing and buffet dining. The Sicilian-American Club of South Jersey, based in Vineland, has hosted this annual bash modeled after the Venetian traditional gala before Lent, for 25 years running.
The club President Vincent Marolda explained the idea behind the gala, what is known in America as Mardi Gras, is that "basically before Lent begins, let's go crazy!" Prizes were awarded for the best costumes, including money prizes for the Carnevale's king and queen. Marolda said that the event is a great way for club members to keep their cultural traditions alive, and introduce their friends and family to them as well.