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 is celebrated in only two places in the world, Jessup, PA, and Gubbio, Italy, and 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 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!
Photo by Linda Anelli
Great viewing spots along the route include:
Powell Avenue and Ward Street
Mylert Street and Short Street
Grassy Island Avenue and Ward Street
Church Street and Center Street
The S Turn (Church Street and Front Street)
Church Street and Lane Street
Church Street and Third Avenue
At this point, the Ceri turn to run up Church Street.
Church Street and Erie Street
Erie Street
Veterans Memorial Field
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.
Rides, Food, Games & Entertainment During Saint Ubaldo Festivities
2026 Dates & Hours Coming Soon
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.
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.
