Saint Ubaldo Day: The Race of the Saints
Spring 2025 • Jessup
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. 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. or 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.
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Where To Watch the Race of the Saints
KICKS OFF AT 5:30 PM
La Corsa dei Ceri (the race) is a fast-paced procession of the three saints' statues: St. Ubaldo, St. George, and St. Anthony.
Spoiler Alert: Saint Ubaldo always "wins." It's his day, after all!
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.
Enjoy the Jessup Carnival:
Rides, Food, Games & Entertainment During Saint Ubaldo Festivities
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.
Saint Ubaldo Day Address & Parking
GPS ADDRESS: 310 Third Avenue, Jessup, PA, 18434
PARKING: There will be limited on-street parking in Jessup for the race, and roads will close right before and during the race.
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