Italian Market Festival 2024: Details on the very silly, very Philly celebration

Every year, the S. 9th Street Italian Market Festival brings unique traditions out for the public to enjoy, and 2024 will be no different with the date set for this Saturday, May 18 and Sunday, May 19.

Taking place throughout the iconic and historic Philadelphia landmark (aka the Italian Market itself), locals and visitors will be able to walk through 110 years of history within the venue while also perusing through vendors, trying provincial fare, listening to live music, and partaking in some of the quirky attractions that make this celebration one-of-a-kind.

Some stand-outs to look out for this year—for one, the Tavolo Zona at the 9th & Montrose Piazza will feature a ticketed area with reserved seating (reservations available online), while the John Marzano Half Ball Tournament will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday. The latter will be in full swing in the Christopher Columbus Charter Schoolyard at 916 Christian Street, and proceeds benefit the John Marzano Wood Bat Scout League. Teams can register on site the morning of the event.

On Sunday, the DeerPark’s Hoagie Competition will begin at 10 a.m., at the Washington Avenue Stage. With this particular activity, spectators can watch top sandwich makers participating in a competition judged by a panel of celebrity judges. As a release notes, the winner will not only earn all-important bragging rights, but will also receive a significant trophy to display in their shop. In addition, DeerPark will donate $5,000 to the charity of the winner’s choice.

The Procession of Saints will also be held on May 19, and the annual tradition starts at Saint Mary Magdalen Church (712 Montrose Street) and pauses for the Blessing of the Market at 9th and Washington Avenue, before ending at Saint Paul Catholic Church (corner of S. Hutchinson and Christian streets).

And lastly, but most certainly not least, the 30-foot high grease pole will be onsite again both days. Greased with lard, teams will be able to compete for prizes (like meats, cheeses, gift cards and money) by making their way and hanging from the top of the pole—and it’s definitely not as easy as some might think. Teams can register on-site the day of the event.

While at this very-Philly and very-silly event, Philadelphians can also check out the Washington Avenue Stage and the 9th & Christian Street Stage for live performances, while also trying all of the fare being served up by vendors.