9th Street Italian Market Festival in South Philly

9th Street Italian Market Festival in South Philly

‘Authentic Italian Culture in South Philadelphia’

Food, Food and more Food! The Italian Market is the nation’s oldest continuously operating outdoor market. The city’s biggest block party will take place on May 21 and 22, which runs along South 9th Street, from Fitzwater to Federal Streets. The family event will go live from 11 am to 6 pm on both days.

Just like St. Patrick’s Day, when everyone is Irish for a day, this festival is when everyone becomes Italian for the 2-day weekend event in South Philly. But the Italian Market is not just Italian anymore. It has become a melting pot of international cultures and cuisines.

Treats by Anthony's Italian Coffee House

Treats by Anthony’s Italian Coffee House

When entering the market area, there will be great sights and aromas filling your senses. The streets will be lined with vendors offering Italian delicacies, live music on stages at three specific locations, games, arts and crafts for the kids, a Half Ball Tournament, a Grease Pole contest, The Traditional Procession of Saints and much more. In addition, many restaurants will extend their table service to the sidewalk so you can dine while enjoying the festival atmosphere.

There will be specialty butchered meats, cheeses, gift and cookware shops, vendors selling specially prepared foods, stands with fresh sausage and peppers, roast pork sandwiches, an infinite array of pastries and so much more.

Italian Festival Grease Pole

The Grease Pole is back! From 1 pm to 3 pm

The Albero Della Cuccagna is an old tradition in which teams try to climb to the top of a greased pole, to reach prizes of meats, cheeses, gifts, and money. Perhaps even more important to the winning team are the bragging rights… until next year.

The pole is 30 feet high, greased with lard, and you will find it at the 9th & Montrose Piazza. Teams can register at the Visitor Center located at 919 S. 9th Street.​

The Procession of Saints

You can also watch the Procession of Saints on Sunday, May 22, from 11 am to noon! The Procession of Saints starts at the historic Saint Mary Magdalen de’ Pazzi Church (712 Montrose St.), and pauses for the Blessing of the Market at 9th and Washington. The procession concludes at St. Paul Catholic Church (808 S. Hutchinson, on Christian St. between 9th & 10th). Click Here for more info.

The 9th Street Italian Market Festival, rain or shine, is one event in Philadelphia not to miss. Bring the family to experience the fun and excitement of delicious foods. family games, live music and much more.  The most important thing, just make sure to bring your appetite with you!

9th Street Italian Market Festival

Location

9th Street & Washigton Avenue (along S. 9th Street between Fitzwater & Federal Streets)
Philadelphia, PA 19147

Dates & Times

May 21 & 22, 2022  |  rain or shine

Time

11:00 am – 6:00 pm both days

Web Site

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