The Feast of San Gennaro has been a beloved tradition in Manhattan’s Little Italy for 98 years. Families like the Frattas, known for their Torrone candy, have been participating since the beginning. Danny Fratta, also known as “Danny on the Corner,” continues the family tradition by selling Zeppole alongside the Torrone.
The feast, which runs through Sept. 22, was originally started by Italian immigrants from Naples in 1926. What began as a one-day block party to honor the patron saint of Naples, San Gennaro, has grown into an 11-day extravaganza with food, games, rides, musical performances, and a religious procession.
Lucy Spata, another familiar face at the feast, carries on her family’s legacy by selling a variety of pork and beef products, including the famous Sausage and Peppers. For her, the feast is about honoring her heritage and traditions passed down from her grandmother.
Visitors to the feast may also run into John “Baby John” DeLutro, known as the “Cannoli King.” He emphasizes the importance of preserving the feast as the neighborhood continues to evolve, ensuring that the tradition lives on for future generations.
Businesses in Little Italy, such as La Mela restaurant on Mulberry Street, also benefit greatly from the feast. John Diaz, the general manager, highlights how the 11-day event is crucial for their business and remains a significant annual tradition for both vendors and attendees.
Keith William Richards, a longtime attendee, shares his excitement for the feast, expressing his intention to visit every restaurant and stand to fully immerse himself in the experience. As the Feast of San Gennaro continues to thrive after 98 years, it remains a cherished tradition for all who participate.