101st Annual Fisherman's Feast

Summer time in the North End is marked by a slew of weekend long festivals embracing years of Italian tradition. The 101st annual Fisherman's Feast honoring Madonna Del Soccorso (Our Lady of Help) took place on August 18th through 21st. During this poignant four day long celebration, North and Fleet Streets are closed down prohibiting motor vehicle traffic. In other words, the party outside my door step is non stop. Pedestrians flock, the smells of sausage and fried dough waft through the air, carnival games and red white and green vendor booths line the streets, all the while various bands take the stage playing music loudly from 11 am - 11 pm. I embrace the feast, as its name rightly infers, by indulging in all the things. This year happened to include deep fried oreos and ice cream filled cannoli. Since I know you're curious, here's an at home close up of the powdered sugar topped, fried dough stuffed oreo. Unreal. They came six to a bag, much to my absolute shock. (I ordered "one" and he starts to pile them in a bag...um.)Of course, the usual Arancini or two were not to be missed. And since photo shoots ensued last year in epic proportions this year, as you most likely already gathered, I decided to let Instagram capture the scene. Bright lights twinkle against brick facades, carney booths explode with colorful items to be won, Italians shout joyfully amongst one another while locals and tourists meander in the beer gardens and dance in front of the bandstand. It was a heck of a celebration, as usual. Until next year....