April 23, 2025

Celebrate at the S. 9th Street Italian Market Festival

Philly's largest block party returns on Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18

By SOUTH 9TH STREET ITALIAN MARKET

Amanda Kuo/S. 9th Street Italian Market

For one weekend each year, the nation’s oldest outdoor continuous market transforms into Philadelphia’s largest block party. With more than 120 vendors, live entertainment, and an action-packed schedule of activities, the South 9th Street Italian Market Festival will once again showcase the rich history and culture of this historic Philly landmark on Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18. Located on S. 9th Street between Wharton and Fitzwater Streets, all are invited to attend this annual celebration that fills seven city blocks with crafts, services, souvenirs, activities, music, beverages, food and fun for all.

2025 FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

• Tavolo Zona at the 9th & Montrose Piazza is a reserved table seating area. To reserve seats, ItalianMarketFestival.com.

• The John Marzano Half Ball Tournament will take place in the Christopher Columbus Charter Schoolyard at 916 Christian Street on Saturday, May 17 starting at 10 a.m. 5-Person Teams (fielding 3 players at a time) will play in the tournament and compete in this celebration of community and precision that is the legacy of South Philadelphia’s native son, John Marzano. Proceeds benefit the John Marzano Wood Bat Scout League. Teams can register on site the morning of the event.

• Procession of Saints, an annual tradition, will be held Sunday, May 18 at 11 a.m. The St. Paul Parish Procession of Saints starts at Saint Mary Magdalen Church (712 Montrose Street) and pauses for the Blessing of the Market at 9th and Washington Avenue, ending at Saint Paul Catholic Church (corner of S. Hutchinson and Christian Streets).

Limited - Italian Market - Procession of Saints

Located at the 9th & Montrose Tavolo Zona Piazza, The Grease Pole is an old tradition in which teams compete in climbing to the top of a 30-foot greased pole to reach prizes of meats, cheeses, gifts, and money. But perhaps even more important than the prizes are the bragging rights — until the next year’s competition! Teams can register on-site day of the event.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE:

• SATURDAY, MAY 17:

Washington Avenue Stage:
12 – 2 p.m. | The Michael James Band
3 – 5 p.m. | Slay Town City

9th & Christian Street Stage:
11 a.m. – 5 p.m. | DJ Timmy DeSimone

Tavolo Zone:
12 — 5 p.m. | DJ Eric Bartello

Philadelphia Union Stage:
12 — 5 p.m. | Philadelphia Union DJ's

• SUNDAY, MAY 18:

Washington Avenue Stage:
12 – 2 p.m. | Juliano Brothers
3 – 5 p.m. | 99 Reasons

9th & Christian Street Stage:
11 a.m. – 5 p.m. | DJ Timmy DeSimone

Tavolo Zone:
12 — 5 p.m. | DJ Eric Bartello

Philadelphia Union Stage
12 – 5 p.m. | Philadelphia Union DJ's

The South 9th Street Italian Market Festival is one of Philadelphia’s most popular events, attracting people from Philadelphia and beyond. With more vendors than ever before, this year’s celebration of culture and gastronomy is a must-attend event!