Get ready, South Philly! The annual St. Nicholas of Tolentine Italian Festival is back, promising a spectacular day of authentic food, lively music, and cherished traditions. Join thousands as the community celebrates faith and culture. What’s your favorite Italian dish you hope to find?
South Philadelphia is poised to once again embrace one of its most cherished community traditions with the highly anticipated return of the St. Nicholas of Tolentine Italian Festival. This vibrant annual event, deeply rooted in the neighborhood’s rich heritage, promises a day-long celebration of faith, authentic Italian food, and profound cultural expression. Set to transform the 1700 block of South 9th Street into a lively piazza, the festival invites thousands to experience the unique spirit that defines this iconic Philadelphia gathering.
The roots of this beloved festival stretch back over a century, intertwined with the history of Italian immigrants who established the St. Nicholas of Tolentine Parish in 1912. These early settlers brought with them not only their faith but also their vibrant customs and culinary traditions, laying the groundwork for what would become a cornerstone of South Philadelphia life. The enduring legacy of these pioneers continues to shape the character and offerings of the modern-day festival.
While its origins are ancient, the contemporary version of the St. Nicholas of Tolentine Italian Festival began in 1987, coinciding with the church’s 75th anniversary. What started as a commemorative event has since blossomed into one of the region’s largest and most authentic Italian festivals, drawing both local residents and tourists in droves. Each year, on the first Sunday of October, the community converges to partake in a celebration that honors its past while embracing the present.
Rev. Nick Martorano, the current pastor of St. Nicholas, passionately articulates the event’s inclusive philosophy. He emphasizes the festival’s role in fostering unity, explaining, “We wanted to create an opportunity for our entire community, not just our parishioners, to come together and celebrate one of the many diverse cultures that make our neighborhood so great.” This spirit of togetherness is a hallmark of the South Philadelphia Festival, inviting everyone to share in the joy.
The day’s festivities traditionally commence with a grand and solemn religious procession at noon, a powerful display of faith and heritage. Statues of revered saints are carried through the neighborhood, a tradition accompanied by the stirring sounds of the Verdi Band performing traditional Italian marches. This colorful and deeply spiritual cornerstone remains central to the celebration, reflecting the parish’s unwavering commitment to its historical and cultural identity.
Following the procession, the festival truly ignites into a spectacular feast of authentic Italian food. A diverse array of vendors, including local culinary legends like The Kitchen Consigliere, Marra’s Pizza, Termini Bros Bakery, and Del Buono Bakery, offer an unparalleled gastronomic journey. Attendees can savor specialties ranging from crispy arancini and succulent porchetta sandwiches to hearty escarole and beans, tripe, and exquisite seafood dishes, alongside an enticing selection of Italian desserts. Complementing the cuisine, wine, beer, and cordials are available, alongside family-friendly favorites like roast beef sandwiches and chicken fingers, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
Beyond the culinary delights, the St. Nicholas of Tolentine Festival promises a full day of captivating entertainment. The stage will host a variety of performances, including the impressive baritone Matthew Maisano, the dynamic Vivaci Dancers, and the City Rhythm Orchestra’s popular “That’s Amore” Italian-American songbook performance. Other notable acts feature the refined Elegance String Quartet, the lively Quaker City String Band, Tuscan tenor Moreno Fruzzetti, and the local favorite DJ Bob Kelly, with DJ Spanky Brown hosting throughout the day, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere.
With no admission fee, operating on a convenient pay-as-you-go system for food and drinks, the festival warmly welcomes all to join in the festivities. Organizers proudly highlight that the event embodies the parish’s ongoing mission: to meticulously preserve cultural traditions while simultaneously fostering a strong sense of unity and community within South Philadelphia. This blend of heritage and inclusivity makes it a truly special Philadelphia Event.
As the air fills with the melodies of Italian music, the irresistible aromas of authentic Italian food, and the joyful sounds of children’s laughter, the St. Nicholas of Tolentine Festival continues its legacy. It stands as a powerful testament to the enduring values of faith, family, and the vibrant community spirit that has defined this South Philadelphia institution for generations, making it a pivotal annual cultural celebration.
