"I would like to take this opportunity to thank Carrabba’s Italian Grill for their generous donation, continued hospitality and assistance with making the Ocean County Columbus Day Parade and Italian Festival the huge success it has become," said Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Chairman, Michael A. Blandina. "I am confident that with the continued generosity of fine people like those at Carrabba’s Italian Grill, this year’s 26th Annual Parade and accompanying Italian Festival will be one our best ever."

The benefit for the Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Committee will be held on Saturday, September 9, 2017 from 12:30pm until 3:30pm. Tickets to the benefit cost $20.00 per person and include a full Italian lunch and other surprises. Tickets can be obtained by calling Michael at 732-477-6507 or Patricia at 732-557-4472.

The Twenty-sixth Annual Ocean County Columbus Day Parade and Italian Festival will be held in Seaside Heights during the weekend of October 6th-8th, 2017. The Parade will be held on the Boulevard in Seaside Heights, beginning at 1:00pm on Sunday, October 8, 2017.

"I am looking forward once again to meeting with the numerous friends we have made throughout the past twenty-five years as well as new ones at the VFW and in Seaside Heights during this year’s Columbus Day Celebration," stated Chairman Blandina.