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Saint Ubaldo Day: The Race of the Saints

Spring 2025 • Jessup, PA

Every Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend, the small town of Jessup, Pennsylvania, comes alive with the vibrant celebration of Saint Ubaldo Day. This unique festival celebrated in only two places in the world, Jessup, PA, and Gubbio, Italy, is deeply rooted in history and culture. For over 100 years, this family-friendly celebration has attracted thousands to Lackawanna County. Saint Ubaldo Day unites the community in a festive display of heritage, pride, and faith, encapsulating Jessup’s rich Italian immigrant legacy. Experience Saint Ubaldo once, and you’ll likely make it an annual tradition.

The Running of the Saints

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The highlight of Saint Ubaldo Day is la Corsa dei Ceri, known locally as the Race of the Saints, where three teams dressed in traditional attire, each representing a saint, run through the town carrying 500-pound statues. They navigate narrow streets and steep hills lined with cheering crowds, creating a thrilling spectacle as the towering statues sway and bob while being swiftly passed among participants.

Where To Watch the Race of the Saints

La Corsa dei Ceri (the race) is a fast-paced procession of the three saints' statues: St. Ubaldo, St. George, and St. Anthony. St. Ubaldo always "wins" the race. It's his day, after all!

Great viewing spots along the route include:
  1. Powell Avenue and Ward Street
  2. Mylert Street and Short Street 
  3. Grassy Island Avenue and Ward Street
  4. Church Street and Center Street
  5. The S Turn (Church Street and Front Street)
  6. Church Street and Lane Street
  7. Church Street and Third Avenue
  8. At this point, the Ceri turn to run up Church Street.
  9. Church Street and Erie Street
  10. Erie Street
  11. Veterans Memorial Field

St Ubaldo Running of the Saints Map

Immediately Following la Corsa dei Ceri, the ceraioli, capodieci, capocette, and others will celebrate a successful end of the Corsa with a procession of the disassembled ceri, stanghe, and saints to the Saint Ubaldo Society Cultural Center. ​

Enjoy the Jessup Carnival

Rides, Food, Games & Entertainment During Saint Ubaldo Festivities

Jessup Hose Co 2 Carnival in Jessup, PA

The Jessup Hose Co. #2 Annual Carnival is a beloved tradition that coincides with the Saint Ubaldo Day festivities in Jessup, Pennsylvania. This vibrant event offers a delightful array of activities for the whole family, including thrilling rides, fun games, nightly entertainment, and spectacular fireworks! The carnival runs throughout the weekend, providing a perfect complement to the cultural celebration of Saint Ubaldo Day. It's an experience that combines community spirit with classic carnival fun, making it a must-visit attraction for locals and visitors alike.

Info & Event Hours

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St. Ubaldo Day in Jessup, PA

The Race of the Saints during the Saint Ubaldo Festival in Jessup, PA.

While the Saint Ubaldo Race and the Jessup Hose Company Carnival are both free to attend, the rides at the Jessup Hose Company Carnival will be available for a one-price ride special. Info on one-price ride specials will be available soon.

Check back later for more information on event hours for both the Saint Ubaldo Race and the Jessup Hose Company Carnival.

To discover more about the festivities for the weekend, check out our blog below!

Address & Parking

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LOCATION: 310 Third Avenue, Jessup, PA 18434

EMAIL: thesaintubaldosociety@gmail.com

PARKING: There will be limited on-street parking in Jessup for the race, and roads will close right before and during the race.

We recommend confirming operating hours and getting up-to-date info directly with the venue prior to your visit.
Saint Ubaldo Society Website

 

While You're In Town