Italian-American Heritage Month every October is a celebration of the achievements and contributions of those with Italian ancestry living in the United States.
According to the U.S. Census, there were nearly 16 million Americans of Italian-American descent living in the United States in 2023. Italian-American Heritage Month was first celebrated in 1989 when President George H.W. Bush and Congress wanted to honor the progress and achievements of Italian immigrants across the country.
Famous Italian-Americans include Yankees player Joe DiMaggio, the first American Pope Pope Leo XIV, and television host and chef Rachel Ray. Yonkers is also known for its lively community of diverse cultures from around the world, including Italian-Americans. Small businesses across the city, from small markets to restaurants and pizzerias, add to the vibrant culture of Yonkers and contribute to the city’s rich heritage.
You can check out these programs at YPL celebrating Italian-American Heritage Month:
Italian American Heritage Celebration with Yonkers NNORC: Friday, October 17 at 1:00 PM the Crestwood Library. Join us for traditional Italian treats, trivia, and a game of Tombola. This program is a partnership with Yonkers NNORC, WJCS, City of Yonkers and Yonkers Public Library.
Italian American and Italian Artists with Professor Val Franco: Wednesday, October 22 at 6:00 PM on Zoom. Join Professor Val Franco for a look at incredible Italian American artists including Frank Stella and Ralph Fasano. We’ll also take a virtual look at an amazing collection of modern Italian artists at a gorgeous museum in Cold Spring.
Celebrate Italian Heritage! Story and Craft!: Monday, October 27 at 4:00 PM at the Will Library in the Children’s Room. Bring your young ones to read a story and make a craft to celebrate Italian Heritage Month! No registration is required. Recommended for children aged 4-7.
Alison Robles, a Yonkers native, received an MS in Information and Library Science from the University at Buffalo. She works at the Crestwood Library and is an avid reader with a passion for YA lit, historical fiction, and fantasy.