CLEVELAND — One of Cleveland's greatest traditions is returning to Little Italy this weekend.
The annual Feast of the Assumption festival is back, with four days of events beginning Friday in the historic neighborhood. The Feast has served as a fundraiser for Holy Rosary Catholic Church for more than 120 years, interrupted only by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
"The Feast of the Assumption is an exciting time for the City of Cleveland," Mayor Justin M. Bibb said in a statement. "This 122-year-old tradition is an important celebration of faith, family, and the vibrant community in Little Italy."
The festival revolves around the Feast of the Assumption of Mary, held every year on Aug. 15 to honor when Jesus Christ's mother, as proclaimed by Pope Pius XII in 1950, "was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory." The date is considered a Holy Day of Obligation in the Catholic Church (expect when it falls on a Saturday or Monday), and this year the 10 a.m. Monday Mass will be led by Bishop of Cleveland Edward C. Malesic and newly minted Auxiliary Bishop Michael G. Woost. The traditional precession of Mary through the streets of the neighborhood will then follow.
Besides the religious backdrop, the Feast is also an opportunity for Clevelanders to enjoy delicious food from all of Little Italy's amazing restaurants. Other events include live music, a casino inside the church hall, various vendors selling gifts, and a raffle drawing featuring a $5,000 grand prize.
"The Feast of the Assumption is a Cleveland tradition," City Council President Blaine Griffin, whose ward represents Little Italy, wrote. "The people are welcoming. The food is delicious. The entertainment options are plentiful. The Feast offers so much, and I urge all Clevelanders to experience this tradition at least once. Come once and you'll come again!"
Here's a look at some of the things you'll need to know should you want to head down to the Feast this weekend.
Road closures
Parking restrictions in the area went into effect at 5 p.m. on Friday and will remain in place until 1 a.m. on Monday. Mayfield Road will be closed between Circle Drive and Fairview Road until 1 a.m. on Saturday and again from 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Saturday through Monday.
Traffic in University Circle is also expected to be heavy throughout the event, so the Cleveland Division of Police will be providing additional officers to help keep things moving, as well as to be on a closer lookout for possible drunk drivers or children who could be more easily separated from their parents in the large crowd.
Parking
Spaces are expected to be scarce, with some lots and garages also charging customers varying amounts. If possible, attendees are encouraged to take RTA trains or buses to get to the Little Italy station, with route times available here.
Procession route
The procession of Mary will begin outside Holy Rosary almost immediately following the 10 a.m. Mass Monday morning (approximately 11:15 a.m.) and will proceed throughout the streets of Little Italy before ending at the church. The entire route is closed and onlookers will not be allowed to enter at any time.