~ The annual Italian Market Festival returns May 20-21, 2023 ~

Italian Market Festival 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.

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

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

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