Archives of the Mayor's Press Office

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Wednesday, September 8, 1999

Release #354-99

Contact: Sunny Mindel/Curt Ritter 212-788-2958


MAYOR GIULIANI AND FIGLI DI SAN GENNARO KICK OFF THE 73rd ANNUAL FEAST OF SAN GENNARO

Mayor Declares September 9th - 19th Feast of San Gennaro Days In New York City

Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani and Figli Di San Gennaro President Anne Compoccia today announced the start of the 1999 Feast of San Gennaro, marking the 73rd year in which the traditional Italian American festival is celebrated along Mulberry Street in Manhattan's Little Italy. This year's festival will take place from September 9th through September 19th. In addition, the Mayor declared September 9th through the 19th Feast of San Gennaro Days in New York City.

"As one of the oldest and most popular street celebrations in New York City, the Feast of San Gennaro will attract over one million visitors and raise thousands of dollars that will benefit organizations throughout the City," said Mayor Giuliani. "Under the leadership of Figli di San Gennaro all of the festival's proceeds go to charity, and since 1996 more than $547,900 has been donated instead of lining the pockets of organized crime. I encourage all New Yorkers to stop by Mulberry Street between September 9th and the 19th to enjoy the fine Italian food and entertainment. On behalf of the City I want to thank Figli di San Gennaro and all the supporters who have transformed San Gennaro into a festival of which all New Yorkers can be proud."

The first Feast was a one-day event that took place on September 19, 1927. It has since grown to an 11-day festival that attracts over one million visitors who come to enjoy the religious, cultural and culinary celebration in honor of San Gennaro, the Patron Saint of Naples.

"Although a party atmosphere permeates the Feast, this is really a religious celebration that has a proud tradition handed down from grandparents," said Anne Compoccia, Figli Di San Gennaro President. "For 11 days and nights the streets of Little Italy are filled with people who come to enjoy the terrific Italian cuisine and great entertainment. The Feast concludes with a Mass for Saint Gennaro, in which his statue is paraded through the streets of Little Italy."

Figli di San Gennaro, Inc. is a not-for-profit, charitable organization. It has been operating the Feast of San Gennaro since 1996. During this period, the organization has distributed more than $547,900 in net proceeds to dozens of organizations throughout the City and tri-state area. For additional information on the Feast, individuals can call 212-768-9320 or go to http://www.sangennaro.org.

www.ci.nyc.ny.us


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