Annual Gala Dinner

It's a tradition that dates back to 1944, the year the Columbus Citizens Foundation's predecessor organization was incorporated. On the weekend before Columbus Day, Foundation members and their guests meet in the Waldorf Astoria Grand Ballroom for an evening of friendship and entertainment that celebrates the strong bonds between Italy and the United States while raising funds for scholarships. 

During the evening, the Foundation pays tribute to the year's honorees and the Grand Marshal of the Columbus Day Parade. These men and women share several characteristics: they are leaders in their chosen fields, they are deeply committed to their families, and they are grateful for the opportunities their families have received in America, as well as the Italian heritage that they hold dear. 

The ballroom stage has seen performances by exceptional singers from many categories of music: American Idol and pop star Pia Toscano and Katharine McPhee, opera tenor Salvatore Licitra, entertainer Joe Piscopo, and scores of other outstanding talents.  And the ballroom’s dance floor vibrates from the tread of dancers' feet long into the night. 

Images from Past Gala Dinners

Click on a thumbnail below to view the gallery.

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