PHILADELPHIA, PA — One of South Philadelphia’s most cherished traditions will once again bring the community together this fall. The Annual St. Nicholas of Tolentine Authentic Italian Festival returns Sunday, October 5, transforming the 1700 block of South 9th Street into a celebration of faith, food, and culture from noon to 8 p.m.
A Tradition With Deep Roots
The festival traces its origins back more than a century to Italian immigrants who founded St. Nicholas of Tolentine Parish in 1912. The modern version of the celebration began in 1987 as part of the church’s 75th anniversary and has since grown into one of the region’s largest authentic Italian festivals. Each year, thousands of visitors—locals and tourists alike—gather for the festivities on the first Sunday of October.
Rev. Nick Martorano, pastor of St. Nicholas, emphasized the event’s inclusive spirit. “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,” he said.
Faith at the Heart of the Festival
The day begins with a grand religious procession at noon, featuring statues of saints carried through the neighborhood, accompanied by the Verdi Band playing traditional Italian marches. This solemn and colorful tradition remains the cornerstone of the celebration, reflecting the parish’s enduring commitment to faith and heritage.
Culinary Highlights and Family Fun
Following the procession, the festival turns into a feast of authentic Italian cuisine, with vendors such as The Kitchen Consigliere, Marra’s Pizza, Termini Bros Bakery, and Del Buono Bakery offering specialties ranging from arancini and porchetta sandwiches to escarole and beans, tripe, seafood dishes, and a variety of Italian desserts. Wine, beer, and cordials will also be available, alongside family-friendly favorites like roast beef sandwiches and chicken fingers.
Families can enjoy rides, face painting, games, and craft activities, ensuring the event appeals to all ages.
Entertainment Lineup
The festival also promises a full day of music and performances. Highlights include baritone Matthew Maisano, the Vivaci Dancers, and the City Rhythm Orchestra’s “That’s Amore” Italian-American songbook performance. Other acts include the Elegance String Quartet, the Quaker City String Band, Tuscan tenor Moreno Fruzzetti, and local favorite DJ Bob Kelly. DJ Spanky Brown will host throughout the day.
A Community Celebration
With no admission fee and a pay-as-you-go setup for food and drinks, the festival welcomes everyone to join in the festivities. Organizers say the event reflects the parish’s enduring mission to preserve cultural traditions while fostering unity in South Philadelphia.
As the neighborhood fills with music, the aromas of Italian cooking, and the sounds of children’s laughter, the St. Nicholas of Tolentine Festival continues to embody the faith, family, and community spirit that has defined it for generations.
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