Explore Baltimore's Little Italy and the Italian Heritage Festival

Baltimore is home to roughly 200 unique neighborhoods, each with its own story. Tucked away in the heart of the city, between Inner Harbor and Fell's Point, is the charming enclave known as Little Italy. This vibrant neighborhood is a testament to its immigrant heritage and has become a hub for Italian-American culture, culinary delights and artistic expressions. One of the most anticipated events of the year in this tight-knit community is the Italian Heritage Festival, a celebration that captures the essence of Italy's rich traditions and flavors brought to Baltimore generations ago.

Nestled just east of Baltimore's Inner Harbor and about 10 minutes from Rachael's Dowry Bed and Breakfast, Little Italy offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, transporting visitors to the cobbled streets and cozy atmosphere reminiscent of an Italian village. The neighborhood's history dates back to the late 19th century when Italian immigrants arrived in search of a better life in America. They brought with them their traditions, customs and, most importantly, their love for food. Today, thousands of people visit Baltimore's Little Italy each year to dine at its restaurants, watch outdoor movies, play bocce, attend Italian festivals, and stroll through the streets to experience a bit of the amore and ambience of the old country.

Your first inclination might be to head to Little Italy for the food. And you'd be right! From authentic Italian restaurants serving mouthwatering pasta, pizza and pastries to charming cafes that brew the perfect cup of espresso, you'll find yourself in a culinary paradise. Iconic restaurants like Sabatino's and Chiapparelli's have been serving authentic Italian fare for decades, becoming beloved institutions in the neighborhood. For al fresco dining, ask for a seat on the balcony at the colorful Café Gia Ristorante or on the patio at La Scala. If you have a sweet tooth, Vaccaro’s Italian Pastry is a must-visit. They've been serving traditional cannolis, cookies and pastries since 1956.

The sense of community in Little Italy is palpable. The locals have maintained their traditions for generations, and you can sometimes still hear Italian being spoken on the streets. The Little Italy bocce ball leagues at D’Alesandro Park are some of the most competitive to get into each year between May and September. St. Leo the Great Roman Catholic Church was, and still is, the social and spiritual nucleus of Littly Italy since it was built in 1881. The Italian festivals and events celebrated throughout the year add to the neighborhood's allure. The Feast of St. Anthony has been a tradition since 1904 and includes a giant meatball contest, while the Madonnari Arts Festival colors the neighborhood with breathtaking chalk art and street paintings. (Note: The Madonnari Arts Festival is postponed for 2023.)

The crowning jewel of Little Italy's cultural calendar is the Italian Heritage Festival. Held annually near Columbus Day, this lively street festival draws crowds from all corners of Baltimore and beyond. The 2003 event is planned for October 7. It begins at 11 a.m. with a processional through the neighborhood. (This is a scaled-back version of the grand Columbus Day Parade that was held in Baltimore for over 127 years.) From noon to 5 p.m., Exeter and Stiles streets become a lively showcase of Italian culture, featuring live music, food, wine and beer, vendors, a sausage-eating contest, and more.

If you haven't had the chance to discover Little Italy during your travels to Baltimore, make sure to put it on your itinerary for your next getaway at our historic bed-and-breakfast. Whether you dine in its authentic Italian restaurants, experience its cultural events and festivals, or simply walk its streets and soak in its history, this endearing neighborhood is sure to capture your heart. Mangia bene, ridi spesso, ama molt! (Eat well, laugh often, love much!)