Feast of San Gennaro

The Living Legacy of Faith, Food, and Festivity in Little Italy

2026/09/09 - 2026/09/19

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].

Main Attractions

The Grand Procession

The highlight of the festival is the Grand Procession, held after Mass at the Church of the Most Precious Blood. The statue of San Gennaro, surrounded by worshippers, musicians, and banners, is carried through candlelit streets. As the procession winds along Mulberry and Mott Streets, solemn faith and street festival energy merge in a moving spectacle[3][5][6][7].

Key Events

Beyond the procession, the festival is packed with live music, dance, carnival attractions and games, and the famous cannoli-eating contest. Over 300 food stalls line the streets, offering Italian sausages, zeppole, souvenirs, and crafts. Little Italy’s renowned restaurants also set up outdoor tables, serving pasta, meatballs, gelato, and more, turning the whole neighborhood into a gourmet festival[5][6][7].

Costumes and Decorations

The festival’s visuals are dazzling. Arches and banners in the colors of the Italian flag decorate the streets, and participants wear sashes, medals, and sometimes traditional Neapolitan attire. The statue of San Gennaro, adorned with ribbons and offerings, is the spiritual centerpiece, and the illuminations keep the night festive[5][7].

Traditional Food & Drink

Food is truly the star of San Gennaro. The aroma of grilled sausages, peppers, and onions mingles with the sweetness of cannoli, zeppole, and torrone. Arancini, fried calamari, pizza, and Italian pastries are popular at the stalls, while cafes serve espresso and gelato. Eating your way through the festival is a delicious way to experience Italian-American tradition[5][6][7][8].

Cultural and Historical Background

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].

Participant Voices

“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.”

Fun Facts

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].