MALDEN — It has long been recognized as perhaps the city’s signature social event of the year.
Year in and year out, thousands of Malden residents, past and present, as well as those from other surrounding communities, descend on Pearl Street for St. Rocco’s Feast. The three-day event combines food, entertainment and tradition, with an authentic Italian American feel.
And this year the organizers of the event, the St. Rocco’s Feast Association of Malden will host the event for the 88th time beginning Friday, August 11.
For its first 75 years, the feast served as the main fundraiser for St. Peter’s Church until the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston shuttered the building in 2004. When the church was closed, parishioners vowed to continue the traditional feast and haven’t skipped a beat over the past 13 years.
Association president Joyce Moyer said she is proud to help continue the St. Rocco’s tradition.
“Things have certainly changed. People move out, the community keeps growing and still we strive to keep St. Rocco’s feast as a way to celebrate our Italian culture, religion and love of our community,” Mover said. “We welcome everyone to join us. It’s a weekend with lots of fun and pride.”
The first night features an opening procession from the Italian American Citizens Club on Pearl Street, followed by free musical entertainment by Vinyl Groove. On Saturday night, the musical group Reminisants will perform songs by Bobby Darin and other artists. Comedian and Malden resident Dave Russo will close out the night. On Sunday, the festival honors St. Rocco with a full procession in the streets of Malden starting at 2 p.m. The Keep it Real Band will perform to close out the weekend’s festivities.
A highlight of the weekend will be the usual array and selection of great, home-cooked Italian food, including sausages, meatballs, pasta, and fried dough, plus amusements and games for children.
