Italo-Americano Social Club
Founded 1938 - Incorporated 1948
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Benvenuti! (Welcome!)
Welcome To The Branford Italian-American Social Club.
Founded in 1938, the Branford Italian-American club is located on
Hamre Lane. The Club is an independent social organization for men
and women of Italian-American descent to preserve its members'
traditions, heritage, and culture.
Over the years, the Club’s purpose has become more community-oriented participating in the Branford Festival, providing a scholarship to a graduating Branford High School senior, and supporting the Columbus Day weekend activities in New Haven county. The Branford Italian-American Club has donated more than $100,000 to cancer research, hospice, local families in need, and youth activities.
The Club members have enjoyed a wide range of fun activities such as the annual porchetta dinner, monthly dinner socials, bocce games, and other camaraderie of activities. Club members attend at their own pace and guests are always welcome.
The Club membership generally meets the second Friday at 7:30 pm in our Clubroom.
If you would like additional information or would like to become a member, please use the form on our Membership Page or email us at branfordiaclub@gmail.com.
Thanks so much for your interest.
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Sincerely, Jeff Vailette
The Party Season is here!!
We have you covered at The Italian American Club In Branford, CT. Our rental program has various options for get-togethers ranging from small to large events. Here, your special event will have a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Our hall rental program provides several options for get-togethers in a fun, friendly, and relaxing atmosphere. YOU CAN BRING IN YOUR CATERERS for your special event.
Events 2024
Feast Of The Seven Fish
The Feast of the Seven Fishes: The Famous Italian Christmas Eve Dinner
Also known as La Vigilia, is an Italian-American tradition that involves a grand meal of seafood dishes served on Christmas Eve. This tradition is rooted in both religious and cultural beliefs.
Religious Origins
The Feast of the Seven Fishes is believed to have originated from the Catholic tradition of abstaining from meat on certain days, including Christmas Eve. Fish was considered a symbol of abundance and life, and it was seen as a fitting alternative to meat during this sacred time.
Cultural Significance
Over time, the Feast of the Seven Fishes evolved into a cherished cultural tradition among Italian-American families. The number seven holds symbolic significance, representing the seven sacraments in Catholicism or the seven days of creation in the Bible. The abundance of seafood dishes represents the vastness of the sea and the blessings it bestows.
Traditional Dishes
The exact dishes served in the Feast of the Seven Fishes vary from family to family, but there are some common staples. These include:
Baccalà (salted cod): A staple in Italian cuisine, baccalà is often soaked, rehydrated, and then cooked in various ways, such as fried, baked, or stewed.
Anchovies: Small, salty fish that are often used as a flavor base for sauces and dishes.
Shellfish: Clams, mussels, scallops, and shrimp are all popular choices for the Feast of the Seven Fishes.
Octopus and Squid: These versatile seafood options can be grilled, baked, or sautéed.
Pasta Dishes: Pasta is a common accompaniment to the seafood dishes, and it can be served with various sauces, such as marinara or white wine sauce.
Festive Gathering
The Feast of the Seven Fishes is more than just a meal; it's a time for family and friends to gather, connect, and celebrate the holiday season. The preparation of the meal is often a communal effort, with everyone contributing their culinary skills. The dining experience is filled with lively conversations, laughter, and an abundance of delicious food.
Enduring Tradition
The Feast of the Seven Fishes remains a cherished tradition for many Italian-American families, preserving their cultural heritage and fostering strong family bonds. The symbolic significance of the seafood dishes and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones make this tradition truly special.
In Memory
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Thomas A Vailette, 91, of Branford, CT, entered the rest on February 12, 2023. He was the beloved husband of 65 years to Anna-Marie Bontatibus Vailette. Tom was born in New Haven on April 29, 1931, the son of the late Peter and Mary Falanga Vailette.
He is survived by his beloved children, Thomas Vailette, Jeffrey Vailette (Theresa), Christopher Vailette, Michele Ranucci, and Ann-Marie McCarthy (Thomas). He is also survived by his loving grandchildren, Jeffrey, Jr., Melissa Sundholm (Scott), Andrew, Christopher, Kelly, Alena Ranucci, Cecelia Ranucci, Ryan McCarthy, Sean McCarty, Lauren McCarthy, and Allison McCarthy. He was also blessed with four great-grandchildren, Ella and Matthew Vailette and George and Edison Sundholm.
After serving in the Korean Conflict, Tom earned an honorable discharge from the U.S. Army. He returned to work at Ude, Murray & Cannan, where he was the assistant manager until he opened Tom’s Atlantic, a gas and service station in North Haven, in 1960. After ten years, he returned
to Branford, where he owned and operated Vailette Auto Parts until his retirement in 1993.
Tom was also very talented, as evidenced by the home he built for his family.
Tom was a lifetime member of the Branford Italian-American Social Club, where he was past president. He also was a past member of the Branford Lions Club and the Pine Orchard Yacht
& Country Club, where he enjoyed playing golf.
His family would like to thank everyone at The Guilford House for Tom's extraordinary compassion and care during his illness.
Relatives and friends may call Wednesday, February 15, 2023, from 4 - 7 pm at the W.S.
Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main Street, Branford, CT, and are invited for
a Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday, February 16, 2023, at 10:30 am at St John Bosco
Parish at St Mary Church, 731 Main Street, Branford, CT. Interment with military honors
will follow at St Agnes Cemetery. For directions and online memorial, see www.wsclancy.com
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How To Play Bocce
