A hallmark of summer on Long Island, the Feast of St. Rocco, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year in Glen Cove.

The event, which began Thursday, runs through the weekend and routinely draws massive crowds to the Church of St. Rocco.

"What we want to do is to bring the joy of the church and also the joy of family and community to everybody in Glen Cove," Church of Saint Rocco Deacon John Fielding said.

While the rides and games are always a draw, thousands show up each day just for the food.

You can catch the nonnas, as they're affectionately called, working all day to prepare homemade recipes that have become a tradition at the festival.

"You have to have grandkids, and you have to want to prep for them. You know, you do it at home, you can do it here," 'Nonna' Denise Manno said.

Each day, there is a menu of rotating specials, but you can always grab the classics, such as chicken parmesan with pasta, rice balls, tripe, meatballs and the famous sausage and peppers.

You definitely can't skip the desserts! The festival is serving up all the Italian classics from cannoli to tiramisu.

Newton Shows runs the rides and carnival games, so step right up and win a prize!

"It's a ton of fun," Newton Shows co-owner Mike Newton said. "We have a lot of games. We're blessed and honored to be here."

There's also live music nightly starting at 7 p.m. Thursday to Saturday and at 5 p.m. Sunday.

This year's performers include Primavera with Antonio Valente on Thursday, Stivale with Angelo Gentile on Friday, Don Felice & Band on Saturday and Pane e Cioccolata on Sunday.

A huge procession also takes place after 10:15 a.m. Mass on Sunday. The event begins at the church and makes its way up Third Street and eventually finishes on St. Rocco Place back at the church.

Festival hours:

The church is located at 18 3rd St., Glen Cove.

Parking is limited in the area but free if you can get a spot, plus admission to the festival is also free to walk around.

Wristbands are required for rides and games and can either be purchased at the event, or you can save money when you buy ahead up to five hours before the event starts each day.