San Gennaro Feast Of The Hamptons Brings Tastes Of Italy, Family Fun

HAMPTON BAYS, NY — Sausage-and-peppers sizzling and the scent of zeppoles wafting through the air signal the start of a beloved East End tradition: The 13th Annual San Gennaro Feast of the Hamptons kicks off on Saturday and Sunday.

The San Gennaro Feast of the Hamptons is a charitable organization 501c(3) "focused on bringing our community together and helping to extend our season so that everyone can see that there are plenty of things to do here in the beautiful fall season. We are focused on raising money to help those in need and have set up a scholarship fund for our local schools," organizers said.

The event takes place on Good Ground Road in Hampton Bays on Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., featuring Italian delicacies, artisans, a carnival, live entertainment, fireworks by Grucci and cannoli, pizza, zeppole and meatball eating contests — all the tastes of Italy, right on the East End.

This year's Grand Marshal is Greg Celi, founder of Celi Electric Lighting, Inc., according to event organizers.

"Greg Celi is a lifelong craftsman, entrepreneur, and community leader," the event's website said. "Born in Brooklyn to Sicilian parents, Greg was raised with strong values of hard work, faith, and family. After attending Catholic school and Suffolk Community College, he began his career at Tele-Signal, supervising departments that built military-grade communications systems.

"When manufacturing began shifting overseas, Greg saw an opportunity and launched his own business — Custom Electric of Long Island (C.E.L.I.)—later incorporated in 1978 as Celi ElectricmLighting, Inc. Over time, the company grew into a family-run operation, now led by his two sons, Greg Jr. and David, and supported by a dedicated team of technicians.

"Known for his quiet leadership, generous spirit, and precision, Greg is not only a respected business owner but also a gifted athlete and artisan who contributes quietly but consistently to his community, and who — if you’re lucky enough to know him —l eaves a lasting mark. He’s a man who leads by example, believes in doing things the right way, and treats everyone like family."

For a full schedule of the food and fun, click here.