Italian cultural events held in New York during Columbus Day

Cultural celebrations honoring Italian heritage took place in New York City during the Columbus Day festivities. The events included the sixth edition of the Caruso Tribute Prize and the Columbus International Award.

The Caruso Tribute Prize, produced by Melos International, featured a parade on Fifth Avenue and a gala at the Italian American Museum. The initiative honors individuals and institutions that promote Italian excellence. Notable attendees and awardees included tenor Frate Alessandro, actor Dominic Chianese, and former New York Mayor Bill de Blasio.

Additionally, the Columbus International Award, founded by Massimiliano Ferrara of Fondazione Italy, recognized cultural contributors at Saint Patrick’s Old Cathedral School. During the event, eighteen-year-old Sardinian artist Mario Donato Vinci performed ‘Nel blu dipinto di blu’ (Volare), representing a new generation of Italian musical talent.