Italian heritage was on full display Sunday as the Greater Bridgeport Columbus Day Parade stepped off despite soggy conditions.

Local performers, civic groups and community organizations marched from Madison Avenue and Jewett Avenue through the city's North End.

"It's a little bit wet out... but we're here for the 118th parade ... marching right down Madison Avenue to celebrate Columbus Day," said Brian Turko of the Port Five Association of Naval Veterans.

Crowds still lined the route despite the rain.

"People from all over have been up and down the route, it's been a great day, despite the rain," Mayor Joe Ganim said.

The procession ended at Central High School, where a special ceremony honored beloved Italian ice shop owner Jay Piccirillo, who died suddenly in April 2025 after years of serving the Bridgeport community.