The Feast of San Gennaro returns to Manhattan’s Little Italy neighborhood this week after last year’s event was canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic. Kicking off on Thursday, the 11-day celebration began in 1926 as a way for immigrants in New York to maintain the Italian tradition of honoring the patron saint of Naples, Saint Januarius, with a feast every September.

While the makeup of Little Italy has evolved over the last century, shrinking in size from 30 blocks to about nine, the Feast of San Gennaro remains one of New York City’s most popular events. Ahead, get a taste for all things Italian with our guide to one of the city’s largest street fairs, from the history of the iconic event to cannoli-eating contests and religious processions.