Preview: Italian Parade in Clerkenwell

Franco Milazzo
By Franco Milazzo Last edited 152 months ago
Preview: Italian Parade in Clerkenwell

This Sunday, the annual Procession of Our Lady of Mount Carmel takes place around the perimeter of St Peter's Italian Church in Clerkenwell.

Being a non-World Cup year, this will probably be the largest national gathering of Italians this summer. Attendees and participants will be coming from all over the South East for a visual feast of Bible-themed floats, marching bands and more Catholic priests than a Father Ted convention.

After the parade, the more religiously observant can partake in an Italian-language mass in St Peter's surprisingly large and ornate interior (tip: get in there before the parade ends if you want a seat or you'll be left standing at the back).

Meanwhile the remainder can partake in other traditional Italian activities: eating, drinking and shopping. Expect a multitude of bancarelle (market stalls) selling beer, coffee, pizza, panini and the Sicilian delicacy cannoli. There may also be an Italian flag or two.

Please note that according to the latest TFL advice, no trains will be stopping on Sunday at Farringdon tube station (the closest to the parade).

Photo (c) Franco Milazzo

Last Updated 14 July 2011