Introduction to the Feast of San Gennaro
The Feast of San Gennaro is back for its 99th year, bringing the sights, sounds, and smells of Italian culture to Mulberry Street in Manhattan’s Little Italy. This 11-day festival attracts a million people annually, all coming to sample the wide variety of Italian delicacies, from sweet treats to savory dishes.
History of the Feast
The Feast of San Gennaro has been an annual tradition in New York City since the early 20th century, when Italian immigrants first settled in Manhattan. According to the feast’s website, these immigrants brought with them their Neapolitan traditions, including the celebration of their patron saint, San Gennaro. In 1926, they decided to host a one-day block party in his honor, which over the years grew into the 11-day, 11-block festival that it is today.
The Festival’s Growth and Popularity
Over the decades, the Feast of San Gennaro has become a beloved event, not just for the Italian community but for people from all over. It features a wide range of activities, including food vendors, live music, and entertainment. The festival’s popularity can be seen in the massive crowds that pack Little Italy each year, all eager to experience a taste of Italy in the heart of Manhattan.
Highlights of the Festival
This year’s festival includes a high mass for the patron saint, which will take place on Friday, September 19, at 6 p.m. at the Shrine Church of the Most Precious Blood, followed by a religious procession. The grand marshal of this year’s event is actor and comedian Joe Piscopo, known for his time on "Saturday Night Live" in the 1980s.
Food, Entertainment, and Live Music
The festival is renowned for its food, with vendors offering a wide range of Italian delicacies. Visitors can enjoy everything from traditional sausage and peppers to more sweet treats like cannoli and zeppole. Alongside the food, the festival features live music and entertainment, making it a lively and fun event for all ages.
Visitor Experiences
Visitors to the festival are consistently impressed by the sights, sounds, and flavors on offer. As Frank Piazza, a visitor from North Bergen, New Jersey, exclaimed, "We are Italians! We love Italia and we love America of course, and this is the best feast you ever saw in your life." The festival’s ability to bring people together and celebrate Italian heritage is a key part of its enduring appeal.
Conclusion
The Feast of San Gennaro is a unique and exciting event that celebrates Italian culture and community. With its rich history, delicious food, and lively entertainment, it’s no wonder that it attracts such large crowds each year. Whether you’re of Italian descent or just looking for a fun and flavorful experience, the Feast of San Gennaro is an event not to be missed.
FAQs
Q: When does the Feast of San Gennaro take place?
A: The Feast of San Gennaro takes place over 11 days, ending on September 21.
Q: Where is the Feast of San Gennaro located?
A: The festival is located in Manhattan’s Little Italy, stretching along Mulberry Street between Canal and Houston Streets.
Q: What can visitors expect to find at the Feast of San Gennaro?
A: Visitors can expect to find a wide range of Italian food, live music, entertainment, and religious ceremonies, including a high mass and procession.
Q: How many people attend the Feast of San Gennaro annually?
A: The festival attracts a million people each year.
Q: Who is the grand marshal of this year’s Feast of San Gennaro?
A: The grand marshal of this year’s event is actor and comedian Joe Piscopo.
