LITTLE ITALY, Manhattan (WABC) — The Feast of San Gennaro returned to Little Italy on Thursday for its annual celebration of street food, Italian culture, music and more.
This year marks the 99th anniversary of the feast, an 11-day festival on Mulberry Street featuring traditional Italian food vendors, processions and live entertainment.
Festivities kicked off Thursday morning with the blessing of the stands, where vendors and businesses are blessed. The grand procession takes place at 2 p.m. on Saturday, and actor Joe Piscopo will serve as grand marshal.
The festival celebrates San Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples who died in martyrdom. When Italian immigrants moved to the Lower East Side of Manhattan during the early 20th century, those from Naples settled around Mulberry Street.
Starting in 1926, the Neapolitans would host what was initially a one-day block party every year honoring their patron saint. Since then, the annual tradition has evolved into a multi-day commemoration of Saint Gennaro, Italian people and their history.
The festival runs until Sunday, September 21.
2024 COVERAGE: Feast of San Gennaro returns to Little Italy for 11-day celebration
Kemberly Richardson has the latest on the iconic street festival full of delicious Italian food, culture, music, and more.
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