La festa del Ventuno a NY / Nikon D-700

The immigrants from Castellammare del Golfo have always paid homage to La Madonna del Soccorso the patron saint and protector of the town and beloved most by it's  fishermen. I have posted many photos of the feast in Sicily, these are of the festa here in Queens. After a mass, the statue is taken around the neighborhood and then it's placed next to the stage on Fresh Pond Road. There are of course all the usual  bancarelle, or street vendors that are a mix of games for children and food for adults. The food reflects the cultural mix of Queens, however the sausage and the zeppole vendors are a must. More photos will follow of this rather impressive four days event that is very popular and well attended. It is interesting to note that the statue is seen by the participants as a holy  relic. The money pinned on it sort of profanes this image but what would a procession be without a statue with money pinned on it. Let's get real folks.