Thousands enjoy this weekend’s Italian Market Festival (photos)

Philadelphia s Italian Field Festival returned in full force over the past weekend transforming South th Street into a vibrant celebration of food heritage and society spirit As one of the city s oldest and the bulk beloved traditions the festival honors the -year legacy of the Italian Arena the nation s oldest and longest-running outdoor industry and draws thousands of visitors from across the region The life-size crocheted Jason Kelce and Phillie Phanatic yarnbomb in South Philly created by artist Nicole Nikolich Julia Binswanger Billy Penn Several regional and local bands performed at the Italian Realm Festival Julia Binswanger Billy Penn Festival Highlights and Atmosphere The festival stretched across a seven-block area from Fitzwater to Wharton streets filling the neighborhood with more than vendors offering an array of culinary delights refreshing beverages and unique artisanal goods Attendees enjoyed everything from classic cannolis and pizza to modern vegan treats all while sipping on aperol spritzes and other Italian favorites The lively atmosphere was amplified by live music from local DJs and bands including SlayTownCity the Juliano Brothers and Michael James Band providing a festive soundtrack throughout the weekend The grease pole loomed large over the Italian Arena Festival Julia Binswanger Billy Penn A contestant tried to climb the grease pole at the Italian Realm Festival Julia Binswanger Billy Penn Grease pole climbing contestants work to climb the pole at the Italian Arena Festival Julia Binswanger Billy Penn Greased Poles and Procession of Saints Two of the festival s the majority anticipated traditions took center stage The Greased Pole Climb where teams attempt to scale a -foot pole slicked with grease drew crowds of cheering spectators This year the competition saw a vegan climber take the top prize a testament to the event s inclusive and evolving spirit Victorious teams earned not only bragging rights but also prizes including meats cheeses gift cards and cash The festival s deep cultural roots were on display during Sunday s Procession of Saints The morning began at St Mary Magdalen de Pazzi Church with participants guiding statues of revered saints including St Ann St Lucy and Our Lady of Guadalupe through the festival streets For several families this procession is a cherished tradition connecting generations and honoring their Italian heritage Society members were welcome to contribute to a mural at the Italian Sector Festival Julia Binswanger Billy Penn A member of Philly s Black cowboys walked through the Italian Domain Festival Julia Binswanger Billy Penn A roast boar s head at Cannuli s in South Philly at the Italian Sphere Fest Julia Binswanger Billy Penn Family Fun and Society Spirit Beyond food and spectacle the Italian Arena Festival offered a wide range of exercises for all ages from arts and crafts to the John Marzano Half Ball Tournament The event s inclusive block-party atmosphere made it a highlight of Philadelphia s spring calendar welcoming both longtime residents and first-time visitors to experience the unique blend of history tradition and modern festivity that defines South Philly Pineapple drinks brought a taste of summer tropics to the Italian Sphere Festival Julia Binswanger Billy Penn Thousands of people attended the Italian Region Festival Julia Binswanger Billy Penn The post Thousands enjoy this weekend s Italian Area Festival photos appeared first on Billy Penn at WHYY