2025 Italian Festival Parade
& High School Marching Band Competition
Hosted by the Columbus Piave Club
Sunday, October 12th, 2025 @ 1:00 p.m.
2025 Grand Marshal
Central Ohio Musical Icon Rick Brunetto of the Rick Brunetto Big Band
Parade and Competition Master of Ceremonies
Columbus Actor, Entertainer, and Movie Producer Dino Tripodis
The Columbus Italian Parade and High School Marching Band Competition is a vibrant celebration of Italian heritage, full of energy and cultural richness. The parade route is always lined with enthusiastic spectators eager to embrace our community spirit.
Event Details:
- Date: Sunday, October 12, 2025
- Time: 1:00 PM (line up begins at Noon)
- Location: Parade Route – Dennison line up to Buttles to High St to Warren to the Columbus Italian Festival Hamlet at 4th St. Marching Bands go right on 4th to main entrance of festival.
Why Participate:
Showcase your pride in our community. This is a fantastic opportunity to show off your car, motorcycle, business,
non-profit organization, and more! There is no participation fee for marchers; however, there is a $100 fee for
politicians to help support festival operations.
What to Expect:
Enjoy a dynamic parade route lined with cheering spectators. The procession will feature local businesses, beautiful
cars and motorcycles, and non-profit groups. Festival sponsors will also be displaying their vehicles. The event offers
a lively atmosphere filled with food, live music, and vibrant cultural celebrations.
Additionally, the parade includes participation in the 2025 High School Marching Band Contest, with awards given
for Best in Show and Best Percussion.
Benefits for Marching Bands:
Marching bands will have the chance to perform for an enthusiastic audience, be part of a cherished tradition, and
create lasting memories while inspiring the community. Each participating band will receive a $500 sponsorship
package that includes prominent display of the band’s name and logo.
Registration:
Participation is complimentary for marchers. Politicians are required to pay a $100 fee to support festival operations.
Please RSVP by September 12th by contacting the organizers listed below.
We look forward to marching with you at the 2025 Columbus Italian Parade!
Rick Brunetto, Grand Marshal of 2025 Columbus Italian Festival Parade
The Columbus Piave Club is honored to announce that legendary bandleader Rick Brunetto has been selected as the Grand Marshal of the 2025 Columbus Italian Festival Parade, taking place Sunday, October 12, during the final day of this year’s festival weekend, October 10–12 in Italian Village.
Rick Brunetto is a pillar of Columbus’s music scene, best known as the leader of the long-running Rick Brunetto Big Band and for his tireless efforts to preserve the big band tradition. He and his wife, Landa Masdea-Brunetto, have played a vital role in the revival of the iconic Valley Dale Ballroom, a treasured local landmark.
Recently retired as band director at St. Charles Preparatory School, Rick served an incredible 46 years as a music educator in Central Ohio, shaping generations of young musicians and enriching the region’s cultural landscape.
“Rick Brunetto is not only a masterful musician and bandleader, but also a champion of community and culture in Columbus,” said Joe Ingrassia, Marketing and Events Director for the Columbus Piave Club. “His energy, passion, and commitment to keeping our traditions alive make him an inspiring choice to lead this year’s parade.”
The Columbus Italian Festival Parade is a cherished tradition that celebrates Italian-American pride, family, and community. It features marching bands, cultural groups, schools, and local organizations, all coming together in the heart of Italian Village for a joyful and colorful celebration.
About the Piave Club
Founded in 1919, the Columbus Piave Club is the oldest Italian-American social organization in Central Ohio. Our mission is to honor our heritage, strengthen community ties, and share Italian culture with future generations.
We invite you to join us this year and celebrate with Rick Brunetto and our entire community!
Dino Tripodis, Master of Ceremonies
Dino Tripodis is a renowned figure in Central Ohio, known for his work as a creator, comedian, writer, actor, host, and producer. With strong ties to Columbus, Ohio, he has gained acclaim for his comedy and storytelling, making him a prominent local personality.
Dino’s talents span various media. His award-winning podcast, “Whiskey Business,” blends humor and insight, engaging audiences with a mix of spirited conversations and unique perspectives. In film, Dino’s upcoming project, “Down to the Felt,” showcases his skills as a writer and producer, presenting a gripping story set in the world of gambling, assassins, and family.
Dino is also dedicated to his community, serving as a judge and Master of Ceremonies for the Columbus Italian Parade and Marching Band Competition. His contributions to entertainment and community events have made a lasting impact on Central Ohio, solidifying his status as a beloved local icon.
Parade Contact Information:
John Contino
Piave Club President –
Italian Festival Parade Chairman
614-214-8473
Deb Roberts
Italian Festival Parade Executive Director
614-228-1868
Joe Ingrassia
Piave Club Events
Director
614-738-0767
