Philadelphia, PA – The Annual St. Nicholas of Tolentine Authentic Italian Festival returns to South Philadelphia on Sunday, October 1, 2023. This beloved tradition has roots in the early 1900s and will bring thousands of people to the 1700 Block of South 9th Street. After a yearlong hiatus due to the pandemic, the festival will start with a religious procession throughout the neighborhood with a long line of Statues of Saints and their faithful following.
The festival will feature various food from Italian restaurants around the region, offering a compelling showcase of Italy's rich culinary heritage. Food vendors will include The Kitchen Consigliere, Marra's Pizza, Esposito Porchetta, Termini Bros Bakery, Del Buono Bakery, and others. Food choices will consist of authentic Italian delicacies such as Arancini, Broccoli Rabe, Eggplant Rollatta, Escarole and Beans, Meatball Sandwiches, Porchetta Sandwiches, Pizza, Sausage and Peppers, Italian Seafood and Rice, Tripe, Pasta Station, Italian Cakes and Desserts. Plus Chicken Fingers Roast Beef Sandwiches, Wine Beer, and Cordials.
The entertainment lineup includes The East Passyunk Opera Project, Nick Desiderio; The Vivaci Dancers; "That's Amore: The Great Italian-American Songbook"; Quaker City String Band; City Rhythm "Love Train Dance Party"; Lights Out; DJ Spanky Brown; rides; face painting; games; sandy candy; sand art and more. At 5:00 pm, a special ceremony will honor the late Bobby Rydell, Charlie Gracie & Jerry Blavat, who were all lost over 9 months last year. A presentation will be made to their families to appreciate their support over the years. The rain date is Sunday, October 8, 2023, in bad weather. For more information, visit www.stnicksitalianfestival.com
The St. Nicholas of Tolentine Authentic Italian Festival is free and open to the public with food and drink pay-as-you-go, so come out on Sunday, October 1, for an unforgettable day full of faith, family fun, music, food, dancing rides, games prizes face painting sand art candy treats honoring some iconic saints plus much more!
