Feast of San Gennaro returns to NYC"s Little Italy in 2024

The Feast of San Gennaro is set to return to New York City's Little Italy from September 12 to September 22, 2024. This annual festival, which celebrates the life of Saint Gennaro, will feature a Grand Procession on September 14, led by Food Network celebrity chef Anne Burrell. The event spans 11 blocks, primarily along Mulberry Street, and includes various festivities such as live music, a high mass, and numerous Italian food vendors. The origins of the feast date back to 1926 when Italian immigrants sought to honor their patron saint, San Gennaro, through a block party that has since evolved into a significant cultural event. The festival not only showcases the rich Neapolitan traditions but also serves as a gathering point for millions of visitors each year, reinforcing the cultural heritage of the Italian-American community. Eugene Donofrio, an executive board member, reflects on the importance of continuing this tradition, emphasizing the role of family history in maintaining cultural practices. His great-grandfather was instrumental in establishing the festival, and Donofrio's commitment to preserving this legacy highlights the significance of cultural transmission across generations. As the festival approaches, excitement builds among locals and tourists alike, eager to partake in the vibrant atmosphere filled with food, music, and community spirit. The Feast of San Gennaro stands as a testament to the enduring influence of Italian culture in New York City, celebrating both the past and the present of the Little Italy neighborhood.