A city with its own “Little Italy” couldn’t ignore this important Italian tradition. Long ago, immigrants brought it to the United States, where it was adapted by Italian-American communities. In the Bronx, Ferragosto has become a vibrant street festival that celebrates Italian culture and heritage. We’ll tell you all about it in this article on bronxski.com.
The History of Ferragosto
Ferragosto is one of Italy’s most beloved holidays. It can even be ranked alongside Christmas or Easter. Everyone prepares meticulously, then enjoys a long, fun vacation. Shops and businesses close down, and most Italians go on vacation to the mountains or beaches to escape the summer heat and recharge with energy and positive emotions before the onset of autumn.
This national holiday, celebrated on August 15, has ancient roots that date back to the founding of the Roman Empire. In 18 BCE, Emperor Augustus proclaimed August—named in his honor—the month of Feriae Augusti (the Festival of Augustus). This festival honored the goddess Diana, as well as the gods Vertumnus and Opeconsiva. Romans believed that good harvests and favorable weather depended on their favor and goodwill.
The goddess Diana was also associated with motherhood and procreation, so August 15 was considered an important day as a celebration of family and the power of ancestors. Religious rituals were held in August in honor of pagan gods to ensure the fertility of both the land and women.
The Feast of the Assumption of Mary is also celebrated on this same day, symbolizing her ascension into heaven. The Roman Catholic Church considers this a dogma, proclaimed by Pope Pius XII in 1950. Christians pray to the Virgin Mary for a good harvest.
Today, Ferragosto is a holiday where religious traditions intertwine with ancient customs and modern trends.
How Ferragosto Is Celebrated Around the World
Of course, to fully experience the energy and history of this holiday, you have to be in Italy on August 15. But this tradition of gathering with family and friends at the end of summer to enjoy delicious food, conversation, and a cheerful atmosphere has spread throughout the world over time. Many countries have adapted Ferragosto to their own cultural nuances, while in some places, the format has remained unchanged due to large Italian immigrant populations. Regardless, today Ferragosto is celebrated outside of Italy. Here’s how it happens:
- In Spain, Ferragosto coincides with “Feria de Málaga”—a week-long celebration of music, dancing, and fireworks. The streets fill with laughter, joy, and song. All Spaniards look forward to this holiday, especially the little ones. Many tourists come to see the incredible festive atmosphere where centuries-old traditions meet modern entertainment.
- In the U.S., Ferragosto is celebrated in some states (mostly those with a high percentage of Italian immigrants). In some places, it’s on a large, festival scale, while in others it’s more modest. But it is always a celebration of delicious Italian cuisine and entertainment.
- In Latin America, the day is dedicated to family ties. In Brazil, for example, it’s celebrated by having shared meals and getting together with loved ones. In Argentina, Ferragosto is more known for large cultural events and school winter breaks since August is a cold month there.
- In Africa, Ferragosto isn’t a popular holiday, but similar traditions can be found in some countries. In Ethiopia, for instance, Buhe is a mid-August festival that includes traditional songs, large bonfires, and public celebrations. In Kenya and other East African countries, August is dedicated to local traditions and religious holidays that bring communities together.
So, although Ferragosto has Italian origins, around the world it has become a universal symbol of relaxation, entertainment, and community bonding. Regardless of the form of celebration—be it a religious festival, cultural event, or just a vacation—this day serves as a reminder of the importance of taking a break to enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
The Ferragosto Festival in the Bronx
So, what happens here on this day:
- Live music and performances.
All day long, Italian folk music is played, and modern bands and dance groups perform. Every year, a large main stage and professional sound equipment are set up at the festival site.
- Culinary delights.
The incredible dishes of traditional Italian cuisine are arguably the main reason for visiting the Ferragosto festival. Classic pasta and pizza, arancini and cannoli, bruschetta and carpaccio, risotto and polenta… The list is endless. Everything is accompanied by flavorful Italian wine, amaretto, limoncello, Campari, and grappa. It’s a true feast for all gourmands and lovers of good food.
- Cultural exhibitions.
Art lovers also get their share of enjoyment and inspiration at this festival. Every year, new exhibitions are prepared with a variety of displays: art installations, historical exhibits, and works of art that allow for a deeper understanding of Italian traditions.
- Games and entertainment.
There’s an entertainment program for both adults and children. Many entertainers, game zones, face painting, magicians, and sports competitions. Everyone will find something they enjoy.
- Religious procession.
A solemn event—a procession in honor of the Virgin Mary—is the culmination of the festival. It symbolizes faithfulness to ancient traditions and reflects the deep beliefs and cultural heritage of the Italian-American community.
Tips for Visiting Ferragosto in the Bronx
If you’re lucky enough to be in the Bronx in mid-August, be sure to visit the Ferragosto festival. Here are a few tips that might come in handy:
- If you plan to drive, be sure to think about parking in advance, as spots may be limited during the festival.
- Arthur Avenue is also easily accessible by public transport; there’s a subway station and bus stops nearby. This option will be simpler and cheaper, as it will be extremely difficult to find a free parking spot nearby.
- Check the festival schedule in advance so you don’t miss the most interesting events. All the relevant information is available on the official website a few months before the event.
- Keep in mind that Ferragosto is not held strictly on August 15, but on a Sunday chosen by the organizers. After all, this isn’t Italy, there is no official holiday on August 15, so people gather for the festival at a time that is convenient for everyone.
- Since the festival is held outdoors, it’s important to dress comfortably and for the weather. Choose comfortable shoes for walking, a hat, and don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses. It’s also a good idea to bring a bottle of water with you.
- Although many vendors accept credit cards, it’s better to bring cash with you, as some services are only available for cash.
- Be sure to take some time to explore the surrounding Bronx neighborhood—Little Italy. Visit the local shops, bakeries, restaurants, and the retail market with fresh Italian products that make Arthur Avenue a true culinary hub.
How Ferragosto Was Celebrated in the Bronx in 2024
To understand the format and atmosphere of the Ferragosto festival in the Bronx, let’s take a look at the schedule of performances on the main stage in 2024.
12:00 PM: Opening remarks by Alyssa Tucker, Executive Director of the Belmont Business Improvement District; the Italian national anthem performed by Jenna Esposito; and the American national anthem performed by Nick Vero.
12:15 PM – 12:45 PM: Performance by Nick Vero. He is the host who has been emceeing this festival for nine consecutive years.
12:45 PM – 1:00 PM: Department of Fools Theatre. An incredibly talented troupe that has won over American and international audiences with their vibrant theatrical performances. Their productions and impressive masks always captivate viewers.
1:00 PM – 2:15 PM: Performance by Jenna Esposito. A talented vocalist known for her tributes to Connie Francis and Dean Martin, as well as for her performances of songs from “The Great Italian-American Songbook.” She was a finalist in the Sanremo Senior competition in Italy.
2:30 PM – 4:15 PM: Performance by the RockSteady band. An ensemble made up mostly of artists of Italian descent who play music from various eras and fiery dance hits.
4:30 PM – 6:00 PM: Performance by Elio Scaccio. He studied at the Peabody Conservatory and has performed works by Verdi and Puccini at Carnegie Hall, as well as original rock ballads across America.
The entertainment program was rich and emotional. Jenna Esposito’s performance, especially her rendition of “O Sole Mio” and the English version by Elvis Presley, added a special charm to the celebration. The RockSteady band lifted the mood with danceable covers, and Elio Scaccio ended the evening by drawing a rapturous crowd.
The culinary program was less structured and formal. From early in the morning until late in the evening, visitors simply enjoyed the delicious food and drinks.
Regina Miliucci-Delfino was serving pizza from a family recipe that hadn’t changed in 105 years.
The line at the Calabria Pork Store stand, which served sausage and peppers, was dozens of people deep.
The Teitel Brothers, owners of the oldest Italian grocery store who are usually closed on Sundays, were also there and had a constant stream of customers. “If I wasn’t a representative of this wonderful district, I’d be here all the time,” said New York State Senator Gustavo Rivera while visiting the Bronx Beer Hall.
Chazz Palminteri also came to the festival, surprising his fans. The famous movie gangster joined in the fun and enjoyed the wonderful atmosphere of the Italian celebration in the Bronx.