This weekend in Naples and New York, Italians and Italian-Americans (and tourists!) will celebrate the Feast of San Gennaro in honor of Saint Januarius, patron saint of Naples and Little Italy, New York.
Early depictions of Saint Januarius
Saint Januarius lived in the 3rd century and served as Bishop of Benevento, Italy. He was martyred by Emperor Diocletian during a period of severe persecution of Christians.
Benevento, Italy, where Saint Januarius served as Bishop
Today, the Feast of San Gennaro occurs on September 19 within the Catholic Church, and this weekend, Italian-Americans in New York City will begin a week-long celebration of this feast. Activities include cannoli, pizza, and meatball eating contests, Italian opera performances, and Catholic processions.
In Naples and surrounding towns, similar celebrations are held, though they last just one weekend.