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Annual Gala Dinner

It's a tradition that dates back to 1944, the year the Columbus Citizens Foundation's predecessor organization was incorporated. On the weekend before Columbus Day, Foundation Members and their guests meet for an evening of friendship and entertainment that celebrates the strong bonds between Italian Americans and the United States while raising funds for scholarships. 

During the evening, the Foundation pays tribute to the year's honorees and the Grand Marshal of the Columbus Day Parade. These men and women share several characteristics: they are leaders in their chosen fields, they are deeply committed to their families, and they are grateful for the opportunities their families have received in America, as well as the Italian heritage that they hold dear. 

The Gala stage has seen performances by exceptional singers from many categories of music: the cast of "Jersey Boys," Barry Manilow, Lady Gaga, Tony Bennett, Il Volo, Arianna Bergamaschi, American Idol star Elise Testone, opera tenor Salvatore Licitra, entertainer Joe Piscopo, and scores of other outstanding talents. And the dance floor vibrates from the tread of dancers' feet long into the night. 


Images from Past Gala Dinners

Click on a thumbnail below to view the gallery.

 

2017
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 2016
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 2015
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2014
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 2013
Grand Marshal Joseph R. Perella
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 2012
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2011
Columbus Citizens Foundation President Frank Fusaro, Mistress of Ceremonies Maria Bartiromo, Grand Marshal Joseph Plumeri, Chairman of the Board and Celebration Chairman Louis Tallarini
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 2010
Grand Marshal Maria Bartiromo with Honorees Jason DeSena Trennert (left) and Frank Bisignano (right)
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 2009
Grand Marshal Kenneth Langone & Celebration Chair Frank Fusaro
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2008
2007 Grand Marshal Lidia Bastianich (left) with Mistress of Ceremonies Maria Bartiromo (center) & 2008 Grand Marshal Admiral Edmund P. Giambastiani, Jr. (Ret.)
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 2007
President Louis Tallarini & Grand Marshal Lidia Bastianich
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 2006
2006 Celebration Chairmen
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More About Columbus Day Weekend

If you wish to participate in the 2020 Columbus Day Parade, we will open up applications on April 30, 2020. For questions about application, please contact Jefferson Wilson at jwilson@columbuscitizens.org or call (212) 249-9923 x242. If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, click here! For more information about the Mission of our Foundation and our philanthropic endeavors, contact our Executive Director, Lisa Ackerman, at lackerman@columbuscitizens.org.