What’s New at This Year’s Feast of the Blessed Sacrament in New Bedford

The Feast of the Blessed Sacrament returns to Madeira Field from July 31 to August 3, bringing four full days of food, music, and celebration to the heart of New Bedford. With free admission and entertainment across five stages, this is one of the largest Portuguese festivals in the world and a highlight of summer on the South Coast.

The 2025 event also comes with updates that make it even easier to enjoy. For the first time, all booths will accept credit and debit cards. A new prepaid feast card will also be available. Visitors can still purchase the traditional food tickets on site, but this year’s additions are designed to reduce wait times and improve accessibility.

Out-of-town guests can take advantage of a new travel package in partnership with Keolis massAdventures, which includes commuter rail fare, round-trip shuttle service, and a $20 feast voucher. Food offerings are expanding, too. This year introduces pastel de nata, Super Bock, Delta Café, and Sumol alongside long-standing favorites like carne de espeto, bifanas, bolo do caco, and Madeira wine.

Live music spans multiple genres, with tribute bands, local favorites, folkloric dance groups, and traditional Fado performances scheduled each day. Saturday is Family Day, with activities like face painting, crafts, and free kids’ meals for those under 12. The Sunday parade kicks off at 2 p.m. from Brooklawn Park and features colorful floats, dancers, and community groups.

This year also marks a historic moment for the feast. For the first time in its 110-year history, women are serving on the executive board and as festeiras from the start of planning. Organizers say their presence is already making a difference, bringing new ideas, services, and leadership to this beloved tradition… It’s about time!

For the full schedule and more information, visit feastoftheblessedsacrament.com

Whether you’re showing up for the food, the music, the heritage, or all of the above, this year’s feast marks a new chapter in one of New Bedford’s most cherished traditions.

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