San Gennaro feast: between history and traditions.
Shorthly, we are going to celebrate St. Gennaro’s festival, but do you know who is he? What did he do in his life? Certainly, he is the beloved Saint protector of the Neapolitan community, and every year we commemorate his death.
He was a martyr whom tried to escape from the persecution of Christians by Emperor Diocletian, but in September 19th, 305 he was decapitated. His blood was collected in two hermetically sealed small ampoules, and held since the 17th century in the Neapolitan cathedral.
The miracle happens on September 19th, and two more times in the year. Once the Cardinal Sepe moves upside down this ampoule, the martyr’s blood liquefies. In case it does not happen, it has a negative impact for the city of Napoli. Within the year, It could happen something not very pleasant.
So, let’s keep our finger crossed that every year St. Gennaro’s blood could liquefy.
In regards of events related to this celebration, in East coast there is plenty of places you could go to, such as:
- Little Italy in NYC located in Mulberry Street between Canal and Houston Streets. Is one of the most famous places where the Saint has been evoked. The festival will start from September 13th, through September 23rd, 2018
- Belmar, New Jersey, between 10th and 13th Avenues. There will be a special Mass and food contest which will take place September 15th and 16th, 2018
- Long Island, Hampton Bays NY. It will start September 29th, to 30th. You will enjoy live entertainment, top-notch artisans, midway rides, fireworks and exquisite Italian food.
San Gennaro is a celebration that everyone wishes to attend. You do not need to be Italian to be there. It is a moment to share with your family or friends. You can take part of a rich history which comes along to traditions and culinary experiences. It is an old celebration near to all the generations of all the ages and races, that probably will never end.
Antonia Mosca