Columbus Day Weekend Festival on Federal Hill
This year marks the 41st Anniversary of the Columbus Day Weekend Festival on Federal Hill, presented by the Federal Hill Commerce Association, and we couldn't be more excited! The festival runs Oct. 9–12, 2026 and is full of amazing food, savory pastries, live entertainment, games, rides and, of course, the much-anticipated annual parade.
You'll definitely want to stop by the La Cucina Galbani ® Cooking Stage, located at America Street and Atwells Avenue. In addition to a variety of chef demos from Federal Hill restaurants, the Wine & Galbani Cheese Tasting sounds delicious! Have no fear, Atwells Ave. from Dean St. to Sutton St. will be closed for the duration of the festival, perfect for strolling through the outdoor event with family or friends.
Live Entertainment, Games & Rides
There will be three stages along the festival route featuring live entertainment throughout the weekend (click here for schedule). Bring the kids along to enjoy carnival games and rides. Don't forget to check out the dozens of food, art and retail vendors along the way.
Mangia, Mangia, Mangia!
In true Italian fashion, there will be plenty of food and then some. Stop at the various food vendors along the festival route for a freshly made meatball sandwich, dine at the tables outside the noteworthy restaurants on the Hill, or have a bite by the fountain in the iconic DePasquale Plaza. Don’t miss Venda Bar’s famous sangria, served at the outdoor bar in the Plaza.
But don't be fooled, Federal Hill offers so much more than Italian cuisine! Stop by Don Jose Tequilas for authentic Mexican dishes or Providence Oyster Bar for some fresh local seafood. Don’t forget about dessert — finish off your day with some sweets from Scialo Bros. Bakery or Pastiche.
Bring Your Family for the Annual Parade
The annual Columbus Day Parade, a real treat for the whole family, will take place on Sunday, Oct. 11 at 11 a.m. on Atwells Avenue. Colorful floats, marching bands, dignitaries, fire trucks and more make this a not-to-miss event during the festival. The entire area will be closed to vehicle traffic during the parade.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where can I park for the Columbus Day Festival festival?
Paid valet lots are at 126 Spruce Street, 107 Federal Street, 57 Sutton Street, 90 DePasquale Avenue and 70 Dean Street. Some restaurants offer their own valet, and there's more on-street parking throughout Federal Hill.
- Which streets are closed during the Columbus Day Weekend Festival on Federal Hill?
Atwells Avenue is closed to vehicle traffic from Dean Street to Sutton Street for all four days of the Columbus Day Weekend Festival. The whole area is also closed to traffic during the parade.
- Is the Columbus Day Weekend Festival on Federal Hill family-friendly?
Yes. The Columbus Day Weekend Festival has carnival games and amusement rides for kids, plus the Columbus Day Parade on Sunday morning.
- Is there live entertainment at the Columbus Day Weekend Festival on Federal Hill?
Yes. Three stages along Atwells Avenue host live performances throughout the Columbus Day Weekend Festival. The full schedule is on the Federal Hill Commerce Association website.
- What food is at the Columbus Day Weekend Festival on Federal Hill?
Food vendors at the Columbus Day Weekend Festival serve Italian favorites like meatball sandwiches. Many Federal Hill restaurants add outdoor seating and special dishes, and the neighborhood also offers Mexican food and fresh seafood.
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