October is upon us, meaning it’s time to celebrate and honor Italian Heritage Month. For many years, the Little Italy neighborhood has served as a hub for Italian-American cuisine and culture to thrive. As one of the oldest and most iconic historical areas of the city, the neighborhood is not only a place where San Diegans can come experience a taste of Italy, but also where many long-standing Italian-American families call home.
What once started as an attraction for Italian fishermen hoping to make headway in the tuna fishing industry, Little Italy has now taken over 48-square blocks full of authentic restaurants, coffee spots, and local shops. It has become a beloved neighborhood not only by those who live there but by tourists and visitors from all over.
This month, the community welcomes everyone to experience what makes Little Italy so special in people’s hearts by supporting the local businesses that reside in the neighborhood. Held every Wednesday and Sunday, the iconic Little Italy Mercato brings in a wide variety of local vendors, artisans, produce, and more. Shop for farm fresh produce, artisan-made gifts, or just to take a nice morning stroll in one of San Diego’s most beautiful neighborhoods.
Along with the Little Italy Mercato, there are various restaurants that serve authentic Italian food so good you feel like you’re in Italy, such as Filippi’s Grotto, Mona Lisa, Mimmo’s, Nonna + Zucchero, Buon Appetito, and more! Italian dessert can’t go unnoticed either. Stop by Bobboi Natural Gelato and Pappalecco for a delicious scoop of refreshing gelato.
Italian Heritage Concert
Nothing gives Italian vibes quite like sitting in the Piazza della Famiglia under the stars while listening to a modern string quartet. Come celebrate Italian Heritage Month at this year’s inaugural Italian Heritage Concert taking place on Sunday, Oct. 15th from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tickets to the event are $45-$50.
Trick-or-Treat on India Street
Get your costumes and tricks ready because Little Italy’s favorite Halloween tradition is back! On Sunday, Oct. 29th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Trick-or-Treat on India Street invites little ghouls and goblins of all ages to dress up in their best costumes and enjoy an evening of authentic trick-or-treating with their families in the stunning neighborhood of Little Italy. Wizards and werewolves will be able to stop door-to-door and get delicious Halloween treats and candy from participating businesses along India Street. A map including participating businesses will be available for pickup at the Piazza della Famiglia. The family friendly event will be filled with Halloween-themed music, Halloween décor and photo opps, so don’t miss out!
Embrace Italian Heritage Month in none other than Little Italy this October where you’ll find exciting events and remarkable businesses to support.
For more information, please visit us at LittleItalySD.com or follow us on Instagram @LittleItalySD, Twitter @LittleItalySD and Facebook @LittleItalySD.
