Feast of San Gennaro

Every September, New York’s Little Italy bursts into a vibrant festival mood with the Feast of San Gennaro. For eleven days, Mulberry Street transforms into a lively corridor overflowing with Italian culture. The savory aroma of grilled sausages, the sound of laughter and live music, and the sight of red, white, and green banners stimulate all the senses. Locals, tourists, and Italian Americans alike join wholeheartedly in this tradition and exuberant street party honoring San Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples—everyone becomes part of the feast[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8].

Centered around September 19, the festival runs for nearly two weeks and draws over a million people to Lower Manhattan each year. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or someone eager to experience New York’s multicultural spirit, the Feast of San Gennaro is a chance for anyone to become part of Little Italy’s “living history”[3][5][7].

The Grand Procession

Key Events

Costumes and Decorations

Traditional Food & Drink

The Feast of San Gennaro began in 1926, when Neapolitan immigrants in New York organized a one-day block party to honor their patron saint, San Gennaro (martyred in 305 AD). It started from a desire to preserve faith and tradition in a new land, and soon grew into an eleven-day festival, becoming a symbol of New York’s Italian-American community. Blending religious devotion, generosity, and hospitality, the festival remains beloved to this day[1][2][3][5][6][8].

For many, the Feast of San Gennaro is not just about honoring a saint, but also about remembering ancestors, supporting the community, and sharing the joy of Italian culture with all of New York[1][2][3][5][6][8].

“I’m a tourist from London, and I’d only seen this festival in movies, so experiencing it in real life was amazing. The music, food, and energy on Mulberry Street were incredible. A local suggested I try my first cannoli, and I’ll never forget it.”

• During the Grand Procession, the statue of San Gennaro is carried through the streets after a special Mass[3][5][7].
• Over 300 food stalls and many outdoor restaurants line the streets during the festival[7].

The Feast of San Gennaro is held every September, centered on Mulberry Street in New York’s Little Italy.