Over four days the American coastal town north of New York will host a series of traditionally Portuguese music and dance shows as well as offering typical Portuguese dishes.
In a nod to its Madeiran roots, among the event’s staple features are a large BBQ pit, a spit and a replica of a Santana house.
In a message on the event’s official website Paul E. Leconte, 2016 Feast President, said: “Carrying on this sacred cultural tradition is an obligation that is shared by all the members of the Feast Committee as well as every member of the Club Madeirense S. S. Sacramento.”
He added that “improvements that are made every year result from the support of the City of New Bedford, the Sheriff’s Department, the generosity of our presenters and a volunteer workforce that cannot be matched. Without their help and your support our event would not be possible.
“A lot has changed since the early 1950’s. Our wish that the feast never ends has come true. Each year the Feast is reborn with the same anticipation and excitement we experienced as children. The responsibility to pass this on to the next generation belongs to each of us”, he reflected.
The massive party concludes on Sunday with a huge parade in which more than 40 organisations will be taking part.
Revenue from the event, first held in 1915 after being organised by a group of Madeiran emigrants, is used to fund dozens of scholarships each worth $1,000.
Over the years it has become one of the largest Portuguese celebrations in the US, one of the largest ethnic festivals in New England, and one of the biggest Portuguese celebrations outside of Portugal.