Italian Market, Philadelphia facts for kids

Quick facts for kids
South 9th Street Curb Market

Pennsylvania Historical Marker
A weekend crowd during the Christmas season at Di Bruno Bros. cheese shop in the Italian Market
Location in Philadelphia
Location	Bella Vista, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Coordinates	39°56′20″N 75°09′28″W / 39.939°N 75.1578°W / 39.939; -75.1578
PHMC dedicated	October 12, 2007

The Italian Market is a super cool and busy outdoor market in South Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It's officially called the South 9th Street Curb Market. Imagine sidewalks covered by awnings, with lots of carts, shops, and restaurants. Many of these places have an Italian feel, selling delicious cheeses, fresh meats, baked goods, and more!

The main part of the market is on 9th Street, stretching between Christian Street and Washington Avenue. This area became a special business district way back in 1915. Today, the market is generally thought to go from Fitzwater Street in the north all the way down to Wharton Street in the south. The name "Italian Market" also describes the neighborhood around 9th Street.

Even though it's known as the heart of the Italian community in Philadelphia, the market also had many Jewish businesses when it first started. In recent years, lots of new people have moved here, especially from Latin America. This means you'll now find many stores and restaurants that serve South Philadelphia's Hispanic community, alongside the traditional Italian-American shops.

A Look Back: How the Market Started

This is the original charter from 1915 for the market's business association.

The 9th Street market, often just called The Italian Market, began in the late 1800s and early 1900s. This area was outside the original city plans made by William Penn. It became a popular spot for immigrants to settle.

Italian families started moving into the area around 1884. One of the first was Antonio Palumbo, who opened a boardinghouse for new Italian arrivals. Soon after, shops opened along 9th Street to serve this growing Italian community. Many of the businesses you see today can trace their beginnings back to the early 1900s!

A Mix of Cultures Today

You can find many fresh produce vendors along the market street.

The market continues to welcome new immigrants. Today, you'll find businesses run by Vietnamese, Korean, Chinese, and Mexican people. These new shops have joined the older Italian stores. Many new Mexican stores have opened, especially in the southern part of the market. Lots of Latino immigrants also work here.

The market isn't just for shopping! It also hosts the annual Italian Market Festival. This fun event features live music, exciting activities, and, of course, lots of delicious food.

Honoring the Market's History

This historical marker celebrates the market's importance.

The Italian Market was one of several "curb markets" that started in the early 1900s. These markets offered fresh produce and special foods from different cultures. Over time, it grew into a famous Philadelphia landmark.

On October 12, 2007, the market received a special honor. A Pennsylvania State Historical Marker was placed at the corner of 9th and Christian Streets. It officially recognizes the market as the "South 9th Street Curb Market." This marker helps everyone remember the market's important history.

Images for kids

• Italian Market Philadelphia Produce 3264px
• Italian Market Vegetables 3000px
• Italian Market Veggies 2268px
• Italian Market Philadelphia Vegetables 3264px