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SKYLARK'S ARTICLE OF THE WEEK - THE ITALIANS ARE COMING! THE ITALIANS ARE COMING!
It's that time again for the annual Feast of San Gennaro! The big banquet in New York City begins this Friday, September 13 and runs through next Sunday, September 21. There's also a feast on the east end of Long Island in Hampton Bays on Good Ground Road this Saturday and Sunday, September 13 and 14. Both are grandly Italian!
There's nothing quite like the Feast of San Gennaro, and as an Italian with roots in Naples, I'm especially proud of this annual celebration. When I moved to the city after graduating college, a group of friends and I made a pilgrimage each year to join the festivities on Mulberry Street. We ate al fresco. That's Italian for in the fresh air. That's my favorite way to eat when the weather is nice. Everyone's Italian at this feast, and it seems as though everyone from everywhere is there! It's great for people watching. E fantastico per osservare la gente.
So, who was San Gennaro anyway?
San Gennaro refers to both Saint Januarius, the patron saint of Naples, Italy and the Feast of San Gennaro celebrates his life and patronage in New York City is where it all began. The saint is famous for the "miracle of the blood," where his preserved blood liquefies twice a year, and the festival features Italian food, parades, music, and community events.
San Gennaro was a Bishop of Benevento, Italy, martyred in 305 AD. He is the principal patron saint of Naples and is invoked for protection from fires, earthquakes, and the eruptions of Mount Vesuvius. His preserved blood liquefies twice a year, a miracle viewed as a good omen for the city.
The Feast of San Gennaro is a major annual festival in honor of San Gennaro, held around his feast day of September 19. The New York City feast began in 1926 when Neapolitan immigrants brought the celebration to Mulberry Street. The feast in Hampton Bays began in 2011 by founder, Simone Scotto as a way to honor Italians who settled in Long Island.
The food takes center stage at both locations of the annual feast. In Little Italy, you can expect to see a Grand Procession with the saint's statue, a Solemn High Mass, music performances, and sometimes celebrity appearances. There's no schedule, but you just might see a Soprano on any given day!
On the east end in Hampton Bays, there are rides, food, and lots of music. Some musicians are flown in from Italy. It's a fabulous celebration of Italian culture that permeates the towns that make up Long Island. Kiss me, I'm Italian!
The Feast of San Gennaro is so popular because it's a vibrant celebration of Italian-American culture with delicious food, great people, and a strong sense of community and heritage drawing locals and tourists alike for a lively, family-friendly experience that feels like a taste of Italy.
Rich Cultural & Historical Significance
- Honoring Heritage: The feast honors the history of Italian immigrants and their enduring spirit, offering a chance for Italian-Americans to connect with their roots.
- Community Connection: It serves as a focal point for the Italian-American community, fostering a sense of belonging and allowing traditions to be passed down through generations.
- Growth from Modest Beginnings: The festival evolved from a small religious observance into a large, city-wide event, mirroring the journey and resilience of Italian immigrants in America.
Vibrant Entertainment and Food
- Authentic Italian Delicacies: The feast is a culinary highlight, offering traditional Italian foods like zeppole (fried dough balls), cannoli, and sausage-and-pepper sandwiches, creating a taste of Italy's rich culinary heritage.
- Festive Atmosphere: Beyond the food, the streets come alive with live musical performances, carnival rides, and games, creating a fun and family-friendly environment for all ages.
A Beloved NYC Institution
- A Model for Others: The feast has become a model for other ethnic festivals across the country, showcasing the cultural richness of New York City and its multicultural fabric.
- Tourist Attraction: Its popularity extends to non-Italian visitors from around the world who come to experience the warmth and vibrancy of the Little Italy neighborhood.
The Feast of San Gennaro never gets old. No matter how many times you've been, this is no ordinary street festival. Over the years, it just seems to get better because this is where you'll find the Italians from all parts of Italy and America. There's always a first time for someone, and the expressions on people's faces are profound. It's such a happy event and the best place to be in September.
Peace and Love,
Skylark
At 60 and Beyond, a gathering like the Feast of San Gennaro can renew your spirit and make you feel Italian even if you aren't. Bella Italy!
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SKYLARK'S PICK OF THE WEEK
Of course my pick of the week is going to either San Gennaro feast. I went to the feast in Hampton Bays a couple of years ago, and it was fabulous. The air was filled with the aroma of sausage, peppers, and garlic, and the music was sentimental. The crowd was filled with all kinds of people. Everyone was happy. Tutti erano felici!
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SKYLARK'S HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK
The highlight of the week was the rise of the Corn Full Moon over Manhattan. Hovering over the glittering lights, she graced her beauty between the blue 9/11 lights. What a moving sight. This picture was taken by photographer, Gary Hershorn.
SKYLARK'S INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE OF THE WEEK
SKYLARK'S PRAYER OF THE WEEK
Dear God,
Please keep everyone safe at the San Gennaro feasts that are coming up this week. Per favore, tenete tutti al sicuro. Amen.
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SKYLARK'S QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Have you ever been to the San Gennaro feast in New York City. How was your experience?
Please put your answer in the Comment section below this post. I'd love to hear from you.
SKYLARK'S ITALIAN PHRASE OF THE WEEK
English: The original hoods.
Italian: Le cappe originali.
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SKYLARK'S INTERIOR DECORATING TIP OF THE WEEK
To make your home cozier as fall approaches, try adding some items that remind you of the place you grew up in. Why not bring them into your new space now that you're all grown up.
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SKYLARK'S SONG OF THE WEEK - BUONA SERA by LOUIE PRIMA
LYRICS
Buona sera signorina buona sera
It is time to say goodnight to Napoli
Though it's hard for us to whisper buona sera
With that old moon above the Mediterranean sea
In the morning signorina we'll go walking
Where the mountains help the sun come in to sight
And by the little jewelry shop we'll stop and linger
Where I'll buy a wedding ring for your finger
In the meantime let me tell you that I love you
Buona sera signorina kiss me goodnight
Buona sera signorina kiss me goodnight
(Scat)
Buona sera signorina buona sera
It is time to say goodnight to Napoli
Though it's hard for us to whisper buona sera
With that old moon above the Mediterranean sea
In the morning signorina we'll go walking
Where the mountains help the sun come in to sight
And by the little jewelry shop we'll stop and linger
Where I'll buy a wedding ring for your finger
In the meantime let me tell you that I love you
Buona sera signorina kiss me goodnight
(Sax solo)
By the little jewelry shop we'll stop and linger
Where I'll buy a wedding ring for your finger
In the meantime let me tell you that I love you
Buona sera signorina kiss me goodnight
Buona sera signorina kiss me goodnight
Mhh sera signorina kiss me goodnight
ABOUT MY BRAND, SKYLARK LIVE
My brand, Skylark Live, began when I turned 60 and noticed a profound shift. I wanted to talk about it and share what I was experiencing with the hope of helping other women as well. My brand consists of a weekly newsletter and a monthly vlog designed to motivate and inspire women over 60 to thrive in mature aging through knowledge and self-awareness. Andiamo! Let's go!
Weekly Newsletter - My weekly newsletter, 60 and Beyond with Skylark, features articles about human interest, nature, general observations, inspiration, motivation, music, places I've been to, and ideas I want to explore. I represent Bay Shore and towns beyond. There is also a calendar of events. I throw in Italian words, too, because I love the language and all things Italian. Bella Italia! As a paying subscriber, you will receive my newsletter each Wednesday morning in your email. That gives you a head's up. You can also advertise your business or event on my newsletter. Just click this link to subscribe: For updates, subscribe to our free newsletter!
Monthly Vlog - My first Monday-of-the month vlog, 60 and Beyond with Skylark, is a recap of what I've written about in my newsletters throughout the previous month. Then I introduce a new topic. My vlog is live on my YouTube channel, Skylark Live, and you can view it at any time. Just click the link to subscribe: (736) Skylark Live - YouTube
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Thank you for your love and support. Apprezza la giornata. Cherish the day. Saluti!
