The Committee of Italians Living Abroad (COMITES) is pleased and honored to announce the celebration of
the first ever Columbus Day Parade in Dallas, Sunday, October 12th, 1:30pm at Continental Bridge Avenue and
West Dallas Gateway, 109 Continental Ave, Dallas TX 75207, to keep the history, traditions and the Italian-
American Heritage Alive in Texas and in the U.S.A.
Since the time the Italian explorer and navigator Christopher Columbus discovered America, Italians have
shaped the culture of our great City, State and Nation.
On Oct.12, 1866, out of pride for Columbus, their native son, the Italian population of New York City
organized the first celebration of the discovery of America. In 1869, when Italians in San Francisco celebrated
Oct.12, they called it Columbus Day. In 1905, the State of Colorado became the first State to observe
Columbus Day, and since 1920 the day has been an annual national celebration, with the proclamation
designating October 12th as Columbus Day by President Theodore Roosevelt. The declaration in 1971 by
President Richard Nixon designated the second Monday in October as a Federal public holiday.
Columbus Day is a day recognizing the countless Italians and Italian-American pioneers who, with a great spirit
of discovery, pursued the unknown. Indeed, scientists, researchers, and entrepreneurs, have all worked together
to better the world.
In recent years many immigrants have made a new home in the Lone Star State, to build better lives for
themselves and their families. Their hard work is evident as one looks around the city to realize that in many
streets, buildings, and real estate developments and architectural designs, there is an Italian influence to show
the contributions made by these citizens. The significance of this year’s celebration will also be to demonstrate
our deepest appreciation for the State of Texas and the greater city of Dallas area for giving many Italian-
Americans and all citizens the opportunity to grow. We, as the Italian-American Community, strive to make
additional contributions to assist the cities of the Dallas Metroplex in shaping their cultural life and participating
in more activities in the future. It will also be a recognition by the Italian-American community of the service
and sacrifice of all the Military Veterans, Armed Forces, and Public Safety Personnel, who fight everyday for
the freedom, safety and peace of this nation and the world and of the families who have lost their loved ones in
the line of duty. The ceremony will have the presence of several official dignitaries at local and state levels.
COMITES President Vincenzo Arcobelli said: “The inaugural Columbus Day Parade will be held over the
unique and historical Continental Bridge Avenue and West Dallas Gateway as a symbol of a link that unites all
the communities as an expression of joy and to show the scenic view of Downtown Dallas to our friends abroad.
We Look forward to celebrating with you ~ let’s celebrate the day to honor Italy’s rich heritage and the
enduring bonds between our countries during the month of October, dedicated to the Italian language and
culture in the world, and to share a moment of friendship with the community at large”.
For more details and additional information contact: columbusdayparade@sicilianassociationtexas.org or call
(469) 608-1282, http://texas.comites-it.org, twitter@VinceArcobelli
