Over 35,000 people flocked to Fifth Avenue for the Columbus Day parade. Photo: Stephanie Ott

The Columbus Day Parade on October 8 celebrated Italian-American culture and Christopher Columbus’ 1492 landing in America. The parade has been held annually since 1929, along Fifth Avenue from 47th Street to 72nd Street. Over 35,000 people participate each year, including over 100 groups with bands and floats. The NYPD blocked off Fifth Avenue for the length of the parade, so that 49th Street was the only through street. Many people complained that they couldn’t get to work or even cross the street to get to the other side. Police barricades blocked the entrance to stores like H&M on 43rd and Fifth Avenue, which was half empty as a result.