A guide to Little Italy’s 96th annual Feast of San Gennaro
The Feast of San Gennaro is an annual tradition in New York City’s Little Italy neighborhood, which began over 90 years ago. This festival celebrates the patron saint of Naples, Italy, and has become a cultural icon for Italian Americans in New York City. The feast features a variety of traditional Italian foods, live music, and carnival games. If you’re planning on attending this year’s feast, here’s a guide to help you make the most of your experience.
When is the Feast of San Gennaro?
The Feast of San Gennaro is held annually in September, usually from the second Thursday to the following Sunday. In 2023, the feast is scheduled for September 14th to 24th.
What are the festivities?
The feast features an abundance of food vendors selling traditional Italian foods, such as pizza, cannoli, gelato, sausage and peppers, and more. You can also find various carnival games, such as ring toss and balloon darts, as well as amusement park rides like a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and a roller coaster.
The festival also offers live music and entertainment on several stages throughout the area. You can enjoy everything from opera singers to rock bands to stand-up comedians.
Tips for attending the Feast of San Gennaro
- Arrive early to beat the crowds: The festival can get quite crowded, so try to arrive early in the day to avoid the longest lines and biggest crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring cash: Many vendors at the festival do not accept credit cards, so it’s best to bring cash with you.
- Be prepared for the weather
