St. Anthony's Feast

Every year the Saint Anthony Society of Boston welcomes neighbors, friends and visitors to “continue the tradition” of the Annual Saint Anthony’s Feast and the Festival of Santa Lucia.

The Feast is celebrated annually on the weekend of the last Sunday of August on Endicott, Thacher, and North Margin Streets and features traditional Italian-American entertainment, authentic Italian festival food and time honored processions and customs.

Since 1919, this most authentic Italian Feast has celebrated the true spirit of the North End and the devotion of the neighborhood’s Italian immigrants to Saint Anthony of Padua.

One of Boston’s largest events of the summer, this authentic Italian festival offers colorful parades, strolling singers, the Filippo Berio Culinary Pavilion, Italian folk dancing, the Pizzeria Regina Open Air Piazza, continuous live entertainment and religious and cultural services throughout the weekend.

Nearly one hundred pushcarts will line the decorated streets, awaiting visitors to sample an array of traditional Italian foods including sausage with peppers & onions, calamari, quahogs, pasta, cannoli, zeppole, handmade torrone and gelato. Visitors can also browse the selection of Italian gifts and novelties and pick up a souvenir. Children of all ages can try their luck at games of skill, or enjoy pony rides and small amusements.

The highlight of the weekend is the 10 hour Grand Procession of Saint Anthony beginning at 12:00 Noon on Sunday. The statue of Saint Anthony is borne on the shoulders of the members and devotees through the winding streets of the North End along with marching bands, drum & bugle corps, color guards, floats and hundreds of followers. The procession culminates with the return of the Statue of Saint Anthony to Endicott Street as confetti, streamers and balloons cascade from the rooftops.

While savoring the sights and sounds of the festival, visitors should take time to tour neighborhood. You will find it is a neighborhood rich in history and culture. Visit some of the many authentic Italian cafés, trattorias and ristorantes, salumerias and specialty shops.

Saint Anthony’s Feast and the North End have it all. Whether you are out for a night on the town with that special someone or out with the family, Saint Anthony’s Feast is a delight for all who attend. This summer, spend some time in the North End of Boston for four full days of free activities at this, the most Authentic of Italian Street Festivals: The Feast of Saint Anthony and Santa Lucia.

All entertainment is free and open to the public. Visitors will have to pay at vendor stands and piazza. For more information visit www.saintanthonysfeast.com or call 617-723-8669

Highlights:
•Opening Ceremonies including the exposition and procession of the Statue of Saint Anthony and the blessing of the crowds and streets of the North
•Grand Procession of Saint Anthony through the streets of the North End with ten marching bands, sponsor floats, and color guard. (12 Noon – 10:00 PM)
•The Filippo Berio Culinary Pavilion - featuring Boston’s best chefs showcasing their “Cucina Italiana” (on the hour - all weekend)
•Children’s activities, including face painting, games and prizes
•Enjoy an imported ice cold Peroni Beer and a slice of world famous pizza at the Pizzeria Regina Open Air Piazza (all weekend)
•Outdoor Celebration of the Mass, Blessing with the Relic of Saint Anthony & Distribution of Blessed Saint Anthony Bread (5:00PM)
•Benvenuti Parade with classic Italian street bands and strolling singers
•The Mix 98.5 North End Idol Contest on the Main Stage
•Continuous entertainment and spectacular musical performances on the main stage. Including “The Next Mario Lanza” Aaron Caruso on the Main Stage
•Closing Ceremonies – Saint Anthony is returned to his home and the statue of Saint Lucy is presented all by vigil candlelight.

Accessible by the T - Take Orange & Green Lines to North Station or Haymarket Stations. The Feast is a 3 minute walk from these stops.
You can also park at area parking lots, which can be costly OR you can park at the Parcel 7 Garage (near Haymarket) and get validated.