The Annual Ferragosto Festival will return to Bronx Little Italy on Sunday, September 8th from 12 pm to 6 pm. The beloved event invites New Yorkers and visitors to experience the neighborhood's old-world charm with a day-long celebration of Italian culture and tradition, featuring delicious food from local small businesses, live music, and amusing entertainment.
Next to Christmas, Easter, and New Year's, Ferragosto is one of the most celebrated Italian national holidays, taking place each year on August 15th. The ancient Roman festival dates back to 18 B.C. as a way to honor the gods and goddesses to ensure a bountiful harvest. Over 25 years ago, community members and numerous family-owned small businesses of Bronx Little Italy brought the festival to the neighborhood as an opportunity to come together, showcase their authentic products, and serve signature dishes to attendees. The Ferragosto Festival continues to grow each year, attracting thousands of guests who travel from near and far to experience what the real Little Italy has to offer.
The festival will take place rain or shine between East 187th Street and Crescent Avenue. Additional parking will be available at Fordham University for $10 with a free shuttle to and from the event from 11 am to 7 pm.
Participants in this year's festival include Calabria Pork Store, Teitel Brothers, Zero Otto Nove, Mario's Restaurant, La Casa Grande Cigars, Morrone Pastry Shop, and many more to be announced, as well as New York Botanical Garden, the Bronx Zoo, and other local institutions. Performers include Bronx native Nick Vero - returning as Master of Ceremonies for the 10th year - Jenna Esposito, Elio Scaccio, and tribute band RockSteady. The Renaissance-style street theater group Department of Fools will also return to Ferragosto, bringing the traditions of Commedia dell'Arte to Bronx Little Italy.
For more information, visit
ferragosto.com.