The Italians are Coming! The Italians are Coming!

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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 feast in New York City begins this Friday, September 13 and runs through the following Sunday, September 21. There is also a feast in Hampton Bays on Good Ground Road this Saturday, September 13 and Sunday, September 14. Both are equally 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 lived in the city, 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 in nice. Everyone's Italian at this feast, and it seems as though everyone from everywhere is there! It's so great for people watching. Osservazione della gente!

So, who was San Gennaro?

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. 

    • What to expect at the festival:
      • Food: There is a wide array of classic Italian-American dishes like sausage and peppers, zeppoles, and cannolis. And lots of Italians!
      • Events: A Grand Procession with the saint's statue, a Solemn High Mass, music performances, and sometimes celebrity appearances. You might just spot a Soprano.
      • Purpose: It's a vibrant celebration of Italian heritage and community spirit. 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. There's always a first time for someone and the thrill 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.


    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 the Hamptons a couple of years ago, and it was fabulous. The air was filled with the aroma of sausage and peppers, the music was sentimental, and the crowd was filled with all kinds of people. Everyone was happy.  Tutti erano felici.



    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.


    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.



    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. 


    SKYLARK'S SONG OF THE WEEK - BUONA SERA by LOUIE PRIMA

    <!-- EMBEDDED YOUTUBE URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5CXZB-dIF0g -->

    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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