Due to the current situation with Covid-19, the City of Philadelphia has canceled all large scale public events until 2021. The proposed 2021 dates for the S. 9th Street Italian Market Festival are May 22 and 23. We thank you for your support of the S. 9th Street Italian Market Festival. We look forward to celebrating with you in 2021.

Grease Pole Climbing Competition

The Grease Pole, or Albero Della Cuccagna in Italian, is an old tradition in which teams compete in climbing to the top of a greased pole to reach prizes of meats, cheeses, gifts, and money. Perhaps even more important to the winning team are the bragging rights... until next year.

Starting at Noon on Saturday

The pole is 30 feet high, greased with lard, and you will find it at the 9th & Montrose Piazza.

DJ Eric Bartello
is the Host of the Grease Pole Climbing Competition

Teams register at the Visitor Center located at 919 S. 9th Street.​