San Gennaro Feast Of The Hamptons Back After Pandemic

HAMPTON BAYS, NY — Bring your appetites: The San Gennaro Feast of the Hamptons is back after the pandemic this weekend, bringing with it all the delicious tastes of Italy.

The event takes place on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 24 and Sept. 25, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Good Ground Road in Hampton Bays.

This year's event features pizza and cannoli eating contests on Saturday and zeppole and meatball eating contests on Sunday. To take part in the food competitions, call 516-538-5252.

A Grucci fireworks display will take place Saturday at 8:15 p.m.

This year's grand marshal, Phil Forte, is "just a humble guy," according to the San Gennaro Feast of the Hamptons website.

"Phil was born in Brooklyn and spent his childhood in Ozone Park, Queens where he dreamed of starting his own business and someday traveling the world," the website said. "He respectfully served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam Era. His dedication to his country led to four years of service honorably. He later served as V.F.W commander Post 2007 Palm Beach Chapter.

"Upon exiting the military, he began his career as an entrepreneur and businessman. This was a fulfillment of two dreams as his career took him to Italy where he lived for four years with his wife and children. Savoring all Italy had to offer while with his family, who still lives in the village of Maranola, he explored his Italian heritage. Many of these traditions still live with him and his family today," the site said.

"Upon his returning to the United States he became a leader in the direct sales industry. These businesses took Phil all over the world. For over 50 years he blazed a trail of respect and accomplishments that follow him even today. Phil is blessed to be married to his beautiful wife Carolyn Trotta Forte for 52 years. He has two amazing children, Peter and Danielle along with son-in-law Scott and four wonderful grandsons Peter, Jonathan , Brett and Alex," the site said.

"Phil brought his Italian roots and his love of the Italian Heritage to the San Gennaro Feast of the Hamptons in 2010. As a first-day volunteer with knowledge of how to run a feast from his experiences in other events around the country, je was happy to step up and help the Hampton Bays Community organize their feast."

The feast also features artisans, a carnival and live entertainment.

The San Gennaro Feast of the Hamptons originated as a festival designed to emphasize the vitality of the Hamptons and Hampton Bays beyond the summer months, organizers have said in past years.

"Last year, thousands of visitors from all over the tri-state area visited the heart of the Hamptons — downtown Hampton Bays —drawn by live entertainment, top-notch artisans, midway rides, fireworks and delicious Italian delicacies," they added.

Entrance donations support local charities including Maureen's Haven, St. Rosalie's food pantry, the Coalitions for Women's Cancers at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital, and the San Gennaro Scholarship Fund, organizers said.

For the full schedule of events and music, click here.