South Philly’s streets will once again come alive with food, music, and tradition as the St. Nicholas of Tolentine Authentic Italian Festival makes its return to the City of Brotherly Love on Oct. 5.
The parish was established in 1912 by Italian immigrants, and has seen cultural festivals on its grounds for over 100 years. This current celebration’s roots date back to 1987 in commemoration of St.Nicholas’ 75th anniversary. The event takes place annually on the first Sunday of October and is held on the 1700 Block of South 9th Street. It’s always free and open to the public.
“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,” explains Rev. Nick Martorano, pastor of the church.
The day kicks off at noon with a procession honoring saints of the Catholic Church. As a release notes, the statues are carried through the street accompanied by the Verdi Band playing traditional Italian marches. Following the procession, the fun gets underway with its now famous variety of ethnic food delicacies, varied musical entertainment, rides, games for kids, and more.
Local food vendors will span The Kitchen Consigliere, Marra’s Pizza, Termini Bros Bakery, Del Buono Bakery and other fan favorites serving up arancini, broccoli rabe, eggplant pollatta, escarole and beans, meatball sandwiches, Porchetta sandwiches, pizza, sausage and peppers, Italian seafood, a pasta station, Italian cakes and more. Wine, beer and cordials will also be on site for those who imbibe.
Entertainment-wise, the occasion will also feature a slew of different talents and performers, including Philadelphia native Matthew Maisano, The Vivaci Dancers (with this act, audience members are able to join in on the fun), The Elegance String Quartet, Quaker City String Band, Bob Kelly and more.
Locals can also catch Moreno Fruzzetti, a native of Pisa (located in the region of Tuscany, Italy), at the event in October. Fruzetti has toured the globe, including in Holland, England, Germany, and Switzerland. During his career, he quickly developed as a singer and brought his solo career to America in 1974, where he met his wife, Jean, aboard the “Sea Venture”. This cruise ship later became known as “The Love Boat” (Pacific Princess), where the popular television series was filmed.
A full schedule of all the food, fun and festival favorites planned can be found online. The event wraps up at 8 p.m.
To find out more information on the Annual St. Nicholas of Tolentine Authentic Italian Festival, visit stnicksitalianfestival.com
