Around a hundred years ago, immigrants escaping desperate conditions in Southern Italy came to Chicago for a better life of freedom and prosperity. They brought with them an amazing variety of foods and traditions that transformed American life forever. Even a century later, in communities from Little Italy to Elmwood Park and beyond, descendants of those courageous newcomers still hold on to some of the old ways.

One of the most beautiful and fun traditions is the Italian holiday tradition of the Feast of the Seven Fishes, celebrated every December 24. (more…)