Giglio lift draws thousands to Williamsburg in centuries-old tradition
The event is part of the parish’s Our Lady of Mount Carmel Feast, which draws visitors from across Brooklyn and beyond.
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A towering symbol of faith, heritage and community spirit rose high above Williamsburg Thursday night, as thousands gathered at Our Lady of Mount Carmel for the annual Giglio Lift.
The event is part of the parish’s Our Lady of Mount Carmel Feast, which draws visitors from across Brooklyn and beyond.
A seven-story wooden tower, known as the Giglio, was raised and danced through the streets by more than 100 men called "lifters," who must rely on their strength and coordination.
“This is something that our folks here wait for every year like it’s Christmas,” said Danny Vecchiano, the lead capo who directs the lifters.
Vecchiano called the event a powerful display of community pride, faith and Italian American heritage.
“It’s so great to see so many people that live in the neighborhood, the new people, and all the people that come back every year to celebrate their faith, their family, their traditions and their culture right here in Williamsburg,” said Father Jamie Gigantiello.
For first-time visitors like Marianna, the experience left a lasting impression.
“I love celebrating this. We obviously came for the Giglio, but I wanted to see Mount Carmel and the monsignor. We love coming to these things,” she said.
This year’s lift holds special meaning, as the parish celebrates nearly 138 years of honoring the tradition and the community that keeps it alive.
