LAWRENCE — Statues of Sts. Alfio, Filadelfo and Cirino were paraded along city streets yesterday just as they always are during the Feast of Three Saints.
But following close behind for the entire procession this year were about 50 onlookers — far more than usual, said St. Alfio Society spokesman Tony Palmisano.
"This is really surprising," said Palmisano. "Look at them all."
Confetti was shot high in the air soon after the large contingent made its final turn onto Common Street, joining the hoards of feastgoers lining the sidewalks and waiting to get a glimpse at the vara carrying the three statues.
"Everybody's happy to be in one place enjoying each other," said Plaistow resident Mary-Beth Lathrop. "You don't get that every day. It feels like a good community."
As always, the 87th Feast of Three Saints did not disappoint for those looking for good entertainment and, of course, good food. Lines for crispellis extended around the block.
"I'm having my first rice ball ever," said Kate Allard of Andover. "It's great."
In addition to the food, amusement rides, face painting and live music was the procession. The three saints were brothers who died rather than renounce their faith more than 1,700 years ago. The feast began in the 1920s, when Sicilian immigrants began to re-create the celebrations they grew up with in Italy.
"It's all faith and family," said St. Alfio Society member Paul Licciardi.
Some residents looked down from second-story windows as the procession passed by.
"I've never seen anything like it," said Allard.
The weekend celebration culminated with the "Moment of Glory" outside the St. Alfio Society building at 20 Common St. After a prayer and several hymns, participants cheered "Viva St. Alfio!" as balloons and doves were released, confetti rained down again and fireworks were lit.
"It's a good time," said Frank Ragonese, a Lawrence native who was back in his old neighborhood for the feast. "It's handed down through the years."
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