The Feast of San Gennaro 2025 in NYC: Everything to Know

If there’s one event that brings Little Italy alive each fall, it’s the San Gennaro Festival in New York City. Famous for its food, parades, music, and deeply rooted Italian traditions, the feast is one of the most celebrated cultural events in the United States. Here’s your complete guide to experiencing San Gennaro 2025.

San Gennaro Festival dates

The San Gennaro Festival 2025  will be an 11 days event. It will take place from Thursday, September 11 to Sunday, September 21, 2025.

The Grand Procession is decided to take place on Saturday, September 13, at 2:00 p.m.

Throughout the festival, the Mulberry Street in Manhattan’s Little Italy will transform into a lively celebration of Italian culture, filled with food vendors, concerts, and religious processions.

San Gennaro Festival 2025 Schedule of Events

How Much Does It Cost to Go to the San Gennaro Feast?

Good news! admission to the San Gennaro Feast is free. You don’t need to pay an entry fee to enjoy the San Gennaro Festival, but it’s smart to bring cash for food, drinks, and carnival games. While strolling through the streets is completely free, the real fun comes from indulging in Italian classics like sausage and peppers, zeppole, cannoli, and fresh pasta, along with browsing souvenirs and treats.

Costs can add up quickly since prices vary by vendor, and some stands are known to be on the expensive side. For families, there are also ride coupons or unlimited ride wristbands available for purchase. Overall, expect festival-style pricing similar to other New York street fairs affordable for small bites, but worth budgeting a little extra if you plan to sample widely.

San Gennaro Festival NYC 2025 Tickets

Since the feast itself is free, you don’t need a ticket to attend. However, certain special events such as reserved dinners, concerts, or organized group tours may require advance reservations or ticket purchases. If you’re searching for San Gennaro Festival NYC 2025 tickets, check official event partners or local tour operators for add-on experiences.

What Is the Biggest Italian Festival in the US?

The Feast of San Gennaro in New York City is widely regarded as the biggest Italian festival in the U.S.. Each year, it attracts over a million visitors who come for the mix of faith, culture, and food. Originating in 1926 as a small gathering of Neapolitan immigrants, the event has grown into an iconic tradition that represents both Italian heritage and New York’s multicultural spirit.

What to Expect in 2025

• The Grand Procession: A colorful parade featuring the statue of San Gennaro, marching bands, and floats.
• Live Music & Entertainment: Street performances, traditional Italian songs, and modern acts.
• The Food: From classic Italian street eats to new creative takes, the food is the highlight for many visitors.
• Religious Services: Mass and blessings honoring San Gennaro, Patron Saint of Naples.

Major Attractions at this year's Feast of San Gennaro

• 15 Sep: Nicolas King (4pm), Opera Night with MORE Opera (7pm)
• 16 Sep: Fortune Esposito (4pm), Panel with Sylvester Stallone and the cast of The Tulsa King (8pm)
• 17 Sep: Louis Vanaria & JoAnn Robertozzi (4pm), Francesca Cavaliere (7pm)
• 18 Sep: Cory Pesaturo (4pm), Midnight Dream (6:30pm), Neapolitan Night (8pm)
• 19 Sep: Giglio Band (4pm), Solemn High Mass celebrating the patron Saint of Naples (6pm)
• 20 Sep: Just Friends (1pm), Theresa Sareo & Danielle Pizzone (4pm), Angelo Venuto & Friends (7pm)
• 21 Sep: City Rhythm Orchestra (3pm), Jenna Esposito (6:00pm)

History of the San Gennaro Festival

The San Gennaro Festival is an annual celebration held in honor of San Gennaro of Naples, the Bishop of Benevento, Italy, who was martyred in 305 AD. The festival began as a feast of faith, commemorating his life and legacy.

Traditionally observed over, the celebration features parades, religious processions, and musical entertainment, blending spiritual devotion with community festivities. Over time, what started as a religious commemoration has grown into a cultural festival that brings people together through faith, food, and tradition.

Tips for First-Timers

• Go hungry: the food is the main attraction.
• Visit on weekdays: if you want smaller crowds; weekends are packed.
• Bring cash: many vendors are cash-only.
• Wear comfortable shoes: you’ll be walking a lot.

Final Words

The San Gennaro Festival 2025 is more than just a street fair; it’s a cultural tradition that celebrates Italian-American heritage in the heart of Manhattan. Whether you’re coming for the food, the parades, or simply the atmosphere, the Feast offers something for everyone. Mark your calendars for September 11–21, 2025, and get ready to experience one of the most iconic festivals in New York City.

FAQs:

Q. What does the San Gennaro Festival celebrate?

A. The San Gennaro Festival celebrates the life of San Gennaro of Naples, the Patron Saint of Naples, Italy. He was a bishop who was martyred in 305 AD, and Italian immigrants brought the tradition of honoring him to New York City. The festival combines religious processions, parades, food, and music, blending faith with cultural celebration in Manhattan’s Little Italy.

Q. Is the San Gennaro Feast free?

A. Yes. The San Gennaro Feast is free to attend. There’s no admission fee or ticket required to walk through the festival. However, you’ll want to bring cash for food, drinks, rides, and souvenirs, since those are sold separately by vendors.

Q. How long is the San Gennaro Festival?

The festival runs for 11 days each September. It’s one of New York City’s longest and most famous street festivals, drawing locals and tourists alike.

Q. What Are the Dates for the San Gennaro Festival in New York City in 2025?

A. In 2025, the San Gennaro Festival will take place from Thursday, September 11 through Sunday, September 21 in Little Italy, Manhattan.