NEW BEDFORD — The city is currently celebrating the 108th Feast of the Blessed Sacrament, a vibrant four-day festival dedicated to the rich Madeiran culture. This festival is a unique blend of religious rituals, Portuguese cuisine, free entertainment, carnival rides, and a lively parade, taking place at Madeira Field in the North End of New Bedford through Sunday, August 4.
Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere filled with various activities, making it a perfect outing for families and culture enthusiasts alike.
When does the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament open Saturday?
On Saturday, the feast will open its gates at noon and will continue until 11:45 p.m., providing ample time for visitors to immerse themselves in the festivities.
What special events are happening today? Anything for kids?
Saturday afternoon will feature a special Kid’s Day program, which will include a wrestling ring near Stage 2. Families can also enjoy activities with Disney characters, interact with baby goats from a local farm, and engage in ax throwing hosted by the Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, a Discovery Learning Laboratory will be available for curious minds.
What musical groups will perform at the feast on Saturday?
Music is a key highlight of the festival, with Grupo Folclórico da Casa do Povo da Camacha from Madeira Island performing at 8 p.m. on the main stage. The evening will also feature Nelia, a renowned Portuguese-American singer, headlining from 10 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Other musical acts include Hallie Grace, Hardwire, Play by Play, Elvis, Morrissey Boulevard, Double Impact, and Jackson Neves. Additionally, fado singer Ana Vinagre will perform at the Museum Café from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.
What food is available at the Blessed Sacrament feast?
Food is a central feature of the feast, with a diverse menu that includes carne-de-espeto, linguiça, caçoila, and bifana sandwiches. Other options include Portuguese-style chicken, beef, goat, or tuna served with potatoes, rice, and vegetables. A unique attraction is a 40-foot-long pit for cooking skewered sirloin beef over glowing coals. Guests can also enjoy milho frito, bolo do caco, and a glass of Madeira wine.
Does the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament cost money to get in?
Entry to the feast is free, although food and drinks operate on a ticket system. Attendees will find about a dozen ticket machines scattered around the grounds, with some machines accepting credit cards. Guests wishing to purchase alcoholic drinks must obtain a wristband from designated booths, which require a valid driver’s license.
What can I bring to the Blessed Sacrament feast?
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the festival has a no-cooler policy. Additionally, backpacks, oversized purses, drones, selfie sticks, tripods, GoPro cameras, and video cameras are prohibited on the feast grounds.
Where can you park your car?
Parking can be a challenge, as street parking is often limited. However, visitors can find parking at the old Cliftex Mill property on Belleville Avenue for a fee.
For more information about the feast and its events, be sure to check local resources.
