Lowellville's Mt. Carmel Festival kicks off tonight

The 130th Mt. Carmel Society Festival begins today at 102 Washington Street in Lowellville. The festival, which celebrates the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Italian American community, offers free admission each evening through Saturday, July 19.

The day's events begin with a traditional parade at 10:40 a.m., immediately followed by Mass. A procession featuring the statue of the Virgin Mary, which dates back to 1889, was carried through the streets of Lowellville.

Each evening, the festival officially opens with a 6 p.m. salute, marking the start of festivities that include live entertainment, Italian food, games, and tournaments.

The traditional "Baby Doll Dance" will be featured on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings. The Baby Doll, a female figurine adorned with a babushka, has been a part of the festival since 1895. During the dance, fireworks are discharged from the figurine's arms and head while the Mt. Carmel Band performs a song titled "Il Bersagliere."

Wednesday's events also include the start of the 1st Annual Dave "Red" Rogers Memorial Bocce Tournament at 6 p.m. Entertainment will be provided by Larry Elefante, followed by the Mt. Carmel Band. The Baby Doll Dance is scheduled for approximately 10 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

On Thursday, the bocce tournament continues at 6 p.m. Entertainment will feature Casanova and the Divas, followed by the Mt. Carmel Band. The Baby Doll Dance is set for about 10:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Additionally, a Sensory-Friendly Experience for individuals with special needs is scheduled for Thursday, July 17, at 10 a.m.

Friday's schedule includes the bocce tournament at 6 p.m., along with the 23rd Annual Frank Lellio Sr. Morra Tournament, with registration at 6 p.m. and a 7 p.m. start. Nunzio and the Melodies will perform, followed by the Mt. Carmel Band. The Baby Doll Dance is expected between 11 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.

The festival concludes Saturday with the bocce tournament's morning bracket at 9 a.m. and the championship bracket at 6 p.m. The Jim Frank Combo will provide entertainment, followed by the Mt. Carmel Band. A fireworks display by Zambelli Fireworks is planned for approximately 11:45 p.m.