Feast of San Gennaro In Little Italy: What You Need To Know

LITTLE ITALY, NY — This year marks the 92nd anniversary of the Feast of San Gerano where more than two million out-of-towners and locals will flood Little Italy's streets for an 11-day salute to the patron saint of Naples.

The tradition celebrates Saint Januarius' blood, which is saved in powder form in Italy's Naples Cathedral and somehow manages to liquefy three times each year. It's an occurrence recognized as a miracle by millions who gather in Italy to watch and is celebrated across the globe by millions more.

Although the feast has its roots in religion, it is known for its Italian eats including zeppole, sausage and pepper subs and cannolis. Festival-goers will be able to enjoy free samples and purchase authentic Italian nosh from dozens of stands.

Here's what you need to know to enjoy the festival:

When is the feast happening?

The festival runs from Thursday, Sept. 13, to Sunday, Sept. 23; from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Sundays through Thursdays, and 11:30 a.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Where is it?

Vendors and festivities are stationed along Mulberry Street, between Canal and Houston streets, and on Grand Street, between Mott and Baxter streets. The festival stage is located on the corner of Grand and Motts streets where live entertainment is scheduled for each night starting at 7:30 p.m.

What can I do there?

The festival is packed with entertainment, eating competitions and dozens of vendors hawking authentic Italian grub and souvenirs. The full schedule can be found on the festival's website, but here are some of the highlights:

• On Friday, Sept. 14, contestants in the 21st annual cannoli eating competition will stuff themselves with the tube-shaped pastry shells filled with sweet cream in a celebration of Italian cuisine starting at 2 p.m.
• The grand procession of floats will roll through Little Italy at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 15.
• Competitive foodies will sink their teeth into meatballs for another eating contest, the third annual meatball eating contest in memory of Johnny "Cha Cha" on Saturday, Sept. 22. at 1 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Mario Tama/Getty Images