The Nation’s Oldest Italian Heritage Parade Dates Back To 1868 In San Francisco — Here’s What To Know For Its 157th Rendition

San Francisco’s vibrant Italian community will come out in droves this October to celebrate the **Italian Heritage Festival**. Festivities include a bazaar all weekend long, and of course, the Italian Heritage Parade on Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025. This legendary parade is the oldest Italian Heritage Parade in the United States , dating back to 1868. Originally called the Columbus Day Parade, the event officially changed its name in 1994 after public backlash against an event celebrating Christopher Columbus. Nevertheless, the parade still draws a loyal crowd to celebrate Italian-American culture in San Francisco. You don’t want to miss this giant celebration! Read on to discover the schedule of events. Italian Heritage Parade ----------------------- 🗓️ When : 12:30pm on Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025 This year’s parade will start off at 12:30pm on Sunday Oct. 12 at the foot of Jefferson and Powell Streets in Fisherman’s Wharf. It will cruise through North Beach on Columbus Ave and end in Washington Square in front of the church. This year’s grand marshal is actor Joe Mantegna, who you may recognize from *Criminal Minds* and *The Godfather Part III*. Fernet Pit Stops are a fun part of the parade route where you can savor some Fernet periodically along the route to keep you going. More events ----------- ### Light Up the Tricolore 🗓️ When : 4-8pm on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025 The SF Italian Athletic Club lights up St. Peter and Paul Church in red, white, and green during a festive celebration. ### Saints Peter & Paul Bazaar 🗓️ When : 10am-6pm on Saturday and Sunday, Oct 11-12, 2025 Saints Peter & Paul Church will host its 107th annual bazaar, bringing back beloved outdoor activities including great food and drinks, games for kids and adults, music, rides, and the salami toss! ### 2025 Grand Ball 🗓️ When : Saturday, Oct. 12, 2025 The Italian Heritage Parade’s Board of Directors invites you to celebrate this year’s grand marshal with a three-course dinner and dancing at the Westin St. Francis. 🌐 Learn more : Visit the SF Italian Heritage website. Source: https://secretsanfrancisco.com/italian-heritage-parade-san-francisco/