Fans and enthusiasts call it “The Feast of All Feasts” for a reason. It’s the Feast of San Gennaro in Little Italy. It's a celebration of culture, tradition, food, and faith. And you don’t want to miss this incredibly iconic and upcoming NYC experience!
The official dates for this year’s San Gennaro feast and celebration are September 15th through September 25th. Mark your September calendars and gather your friends and family! It's two weeks of Italian-centric fun!
What Is the Feast of San Gennaro All About?
San Gennaro was the Bishop of Benevento, Italy, and became a martyr in 305 AD. He was persecuted for visiting faithful deacons and laymen who had been imprisoned. Agents of the government captured and tortured him, yet Gennaro remained unwavering in his faith. They even threw him into a furnace, which he miraculously survived unharmed. He eventually was beheaded, but his followers remained true to his sacrifice. Over the centuries, Neapolitans prayed to him for protection from earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and plagues. He continues to be revered and honored as a universal helper and champion.
Fast-forward to the 20th century, during which the Italian migration into Manhattan began. The Neapolitans settled predominantly on Mulberry Street. And in 1926, in keeping with their beliefs and traditions, the Italian immigrants started a neighborhood block party in honor of their patron saint, San Gennaro, a tradition that continues still today, spanning 11 days and 11 blocks of Little Italy. And in keeping with the ways of San Gennaro, this celebration and the Figli di San Gennaro have donated more than $2 million to charities since 1996.
What’s Happening at the 2022 Feast of San Gennaro?
There will be lots happening over this two-week celebration, including food, entertainment, and traditional faith-based honors for San Gennaro. The Feast will be taking place on Mulberry Street between Houston and Canal, as well as on Hester between Centre and Baxter Streets, including Centre Market Place.
- 5th Annual Meatball Eating Contest
- 24th Annual Cannoli Eating Competition
- 2nd Annual Pizza Eating Contest
- 3rd Annual Zeppole Eating Competition
- Blessing of the Stands
- Solemn High Mass
- Johnny Mandolin & Friends
- Vanessa Racci
- Vocal Tribute to Frank Sinatra
- Jenna Esposito
- Live Radio Broadcast, WCBS FM
- Musical Tribute to the Armed Forces
- The Grand Procession
This year’s Grand Marshall for the Feast of San Gennaro is a NASA Astronaut, Michael J. Massimino. This year’s festival theme is “Celebrating America and Honoring Our Armed Forces.”
For more information on these scheduled events for the Feast of San Gennaro, visit the website. There may still be sponsorship and vendor opportunities available, as well for NYC area businesses. Below are contacts for additional information.
Sponsorships: Mort&Ray Productions, Mort Berkowitz, (212) 764-6330 and mort@mortanddray.com
Public Relations: Gail Tweedy, (212) 470-7069 and Gailtweedypr@yahoo.com
Immerse yourself in Little Italy for this incredible celebration of heritage, food, and faith!
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