The North End of Boston is famous for its thriving and colorful traditions maintained through vibrant religious festivities. The St. Anthony Feast is one of the most outstanding celebrations of its kind that features outdoor entertainment, including bright street parades and perhaps everyone's favorite part—delicious Italian specialties sold across hundreds of food carts.
Festival Highlights
The feast takes place annually on the last Sunday of August with the major highlight—the Grand Procession of Saint Anthony. It begins at noon and lasts for over ten hours. However, the festivities dedicated to the Saint begin on the last Thursday of August. The celebration takes place on Thacher, Endicott, and North Margin Streets of Boston's North End. The operating hours for Thursday are from 5 pm to 11 pm, and from noon to 11 pm on the weekend. All entertainment is open to the public and free of charge. You may bring donations to the Chapel of Saint Anthony and Saint Lucy.
Food
Guests can meander through the charmingly adorned streets, indulging in a delightful array of Italian street foods from 100 pushcarts. Everyone can savor favorites like arancini, sausage peppers & onions, quahogs, calamari, pizza, pasta, and traditional treats such as zeppole, cannoli, and gelato. Additionally, festival-goers can explore the diverse selection of souvenir keepsakes and mementos available for browsing.
Festival History
These festive traditions have been thriving in the area since 1919, when immigrants from Italy's Montefalcione introduced them to Boston. Saint Anthony of Padua, also known as Anthony of Lisbon, was a priest and friar of the Franciscan Order known for his miracles. Both Padua and Portugal claim him as their patron saint.
Parking
While on-street public parking in the North End is limited, attendees can utilize various parking facilities nearby, including The North End Garage, Government Center Garage, and The Parcel 7 Parking Garage. Additionally, parking facilities are available along the Waterfront of the North End (Commercial Street) and in the North Station area.
