Thousands lined up along Fifth Avenue for a tradition that began in the city back in 1929, the annual Columbus Day Parade. It’s the world’s largest celebration of Italian-American Heritage, and senior Correspondent Gabe Pressman, who has been covering the event for decades, was back out in the crowd on Monday.
Thousands of people are lining Fifth Avenue for the city's annual Columbus Day parade.
Monday's parade is organized by the Columbus Citizens Foundation. It's billed as the world's largest celebration of Italian-American heritage and culture.
It also is a major political showcase less than a month before Election Day.
The marchers include Gov. Cuomo, a Democrat, and his Republican rival, Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino. Cuomo is seeking re-election and has a commanding lead in the polls.
They also include Mayor de Blasio, who frequently touts his Italian heritage.
The festivities feature scores of matching bands and Italian civic groups. The first parade was held in Manhattan in 1929.
