The Feast of San Gennaro in NYC is a celebration of Italian culture. Food stalls line the streets of Little Italy, New York City, serving items like cannoli and pizza. You will smell sausage and peppers as soon as you arrive. Live music, carnival games, and religious processions come together in harmony.

It’s a treat for your senses, no doubt—read the full article for all the details you need!

Photo by Alex Haney on Unsplash

What is the Feast of San Gennaro?

The Feast of San Gennaro is a festival to honor Saint Januarius, or San Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples, Italy. This festival takes place every year in mid-September in Little Italy, NYC, and lasts for about 11 days. It features religious processions, food stalls, parades, music, and traditional Italian food. San Gennaro Feast is one of the biggest Italian-American events in the United States.

Who was Saint Gennaro? He was a bishop in Benevento, Italy, in the 3rd century who died for his faith during Emperor Diocletian’s persecution. He is known for the miracle of the blood, which liquefies three times a year.

When is the San Gennaro Feast in NYC 2024?

The Feast of San Gennaro in New York City in 2024 takes place from September 12 to September 22, 2024. The event covers 11 blocks and boasts Italian food, live shows, parades, and religious activities.

Main events include the Grand Procession on Saturday, September 14, and a High Mass at the Shrine Church of the Most Precious Blood on Thursday, September 19. Admission is free, and activities run from 11:30 AM to 11 PM on weekdays, and until midnight on weekends.

Where to Experience the Feast of San Gennaro in NYC

To enjoy the Feast of San Gennaro in Little Italy, New York City, check out these spots in 2024:

• Mulberry Street is the main avenue, packed with food stalls and games.
• The Grand Procession on September 14.
• The Shrine Church of the Most Precious Blood for religious events.
• Grand Street offers tasty fried calamari and pizza. Local restaurants like Puglia and Ferrara Bakery feature special menus.
• The Hester Street Stage for live music and shows.
• At Ferrara Bakery, try the cannoli and sample cheeses at Alleva Dairy.

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Best Events at San Gennaro Feast 2024 in Little Italy, NYC

Grand Stage on Mulberry Street

The main stage, located at Mulberry and Grand, hosts several events during the festival. For starters, there’s Italian folk music, trendy bands, and tribute acts. Expect to see singers like Tino Roman and Johnny Mandolin performing classics, alongside local jazz and rock bands.

San Gennaro Musical Lineup

Each feast day brings different performers, traditional Italian singers, and bands covering classic rock, pop, and local indie musicians. Genres vary, keeping it interesting for everyone. You’ll hear opera, Neapolitan songs, and pop music on the same day.

Opera Night

Opera performances bring a slice of classic Italian culture to Mulberry Street. It usually features famous selections from operas like “La Traviata” or “Rigoletto.” You might see local and internationally trained opera singers showcasing their talents.

Traditional Italian Dance Performances

Traditional folk dance routines with dancers in authentic costumes, showing off moves passed down through generations. Tarantella, the upbeat circle dance, is a common performance highlight.

Tribute Bands

During various nights, tribute bands perform hits from iconic Italian-American artists like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. They may also do rock tributes to celebrate legends like The Beatles or Billy Joel. Sinatra impersonators or cover bands often take the stage.

Religious Processions with Choirs

The Grand Procession happens on the Saturday closest to September 19. A statue of San Gennaro is carried through the streets. Religious choirs, bands, and musicians perform hymns during this deeply spiritual event. Brass bands from local schools or Italian-American clubs usually add to the emotional experience.

Local Artists and Street Performers

Beyond the main acts, you’ll find buskers and street musicians adding to the festive vibe. You might hear acoustic guitarists, accordion players, and vocalists singing Italian songs.

San Gennaro Live Broadcast Performances

Local radio stations cover parts of the feast, transmitting live from the event. Well-known and up-and-coming artists perform, so keep an ear out for stations like WFUV and SiriusXM airing live music during the feast.

Religious Ceremonies Honoring San Gennaro

The Feast of San Gennaro is a celebration of tradition and faith, especially for Italian-Americans in the United States. The Solemn High Mass on September 19 at Most Precious Blood Church is a highlight. Then, the Grand Procession, where a statue of the saint glides through Little Italy. Daily Masses invite reflection, and blessings shower the community while candles flicker, representing prayers.

San Gennaro is a celebration that brings together Italian-Americans, hopes, and spirits in a meaningful and heartfelt way.

Family Fun: Games, Rides, and More

At the Feast of San Gennaro, there are a bunch of fun things to do for families too. First, carnival games like ring toss and balloon darts, where everyone can win toys and prizes. Rides, mini Ferris wheels, and spinning teacups can make you dizzy. Also, balloon artists twist amazing shapes. Street performers, jugglers, and clowns are all over the place adding joy to the celebrations. Craft stations and bouncy houses let kids unleash creativity and vitality. It’s full of laughter, a great opportunity for families to create long-lasting memories.

Must-Try Foods at the Feast of San Gennaro

• Sausage and Peppers: This street food classic, with juicy sausage, grilled peppers, and onions, all stuffed in a crusty roll, is just heavenly!
• Cannoli: Crispy shells filled with sweet ricotta are simply divine. Famous spots like Ferrara’s offer the best, sweet, and crunchy all-in-one bite.
• Zeppoles: These fluffy, deep-fried balls dusted with powdered sugar are just what you need for dessert.
• Calamari: Freshly made fried calamari rings: crispy and golden, served with marinara sauce—what more could you ask for?
• Pizza: The heart of Italian-American culture. Try classic New York-style pizza, which has a thin, crispy crust, and sticky mozzarella.
• Braciole Sandwiches: Rich and tender beef slices rolled up and stuffed, served in a sandwich. It’s like a hug for your taste buds.
• Arancini (Rice Balls): Crispy on the outside, stuffed with creamy risotto on the inside, and served with marinara—a comforting bite.
• Italian Ices: Refreshing frozen desserts in fruity flavors, what a treat, especially good on warm days.
• Torrone (Nougat): This sweet, chewy treat made from honey and nuts is a classic festival snack.

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Travel Tips for Attending the Feast of San Gennaro in NYC

• The best times to visit are weekdays, especially afternoons, for fewer people. Mornings, right after the feast opens at 11 AM, are more peaceful. Expect lots of folks and long waits at nights and weekends.
• Plan Your Route: The main festival is on Mulberry Street, but it can be packed. Have a mental map ready for food spots or shows, and consider using quieter streets to sidestep congestion.
• Bring Cash: Many vendors operate cash-only, so bring some small bills. ATMs are available but often involve long lines and fees.
• Safety in Crowds: If you’re with a group, especially kids, set a meeting point in case anyone gets lost. Keep valuables secure with a zippered bag or crossbody.

Does it cost extra for entertainment at the San Gennaro Festival?

No, most of the entertainment at the Feast of San Gennaro is free of charge. There’s live music, parades, and religious activities, all without cost for everyone to enjoy. You can listen to bands and watch performances without spending a dime. However, you do need tickets for carnival rides and some games as well as for food and drinks from vendors. But we can say the entertainment alone is free.

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Related: Everything You Need to Know About Using an eSIM in New York