Fall River’s Great Feast Returns Honoring Azorean Culture

FALL RIVER (WBSM) — After the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament wrapped up its 108th year in New Bedford celebrating Madeira, Fall River is now gearing up for its annual Great Feast of the Holy Ghost of New England, which will begin next week.

Fall River's famous Feast is one of the most significant events in the United States, honoring the Azores' culture and traditions.

It has been an ongoing celebration since 1986, honoring the culture through parades, food, crafts, music concerts, banquets and crowning processions.

Get our free mobile app

In a statement, 2024 Great Feast President Herberto Silva said that the Feast is an event for everyone in the community to enjoy.

"Historically, the celebration draws more than 100,000 visitors from as far as Canada and Portugal. We're hoping to have a bigger feast than last year," he said.

The Great Feast of the Holy Ghost returns to Kennedy Park on August 21 and ends on August 25, and here's what you can expect.

Parking Permits for Residents

Due to the celebrations, many streets will be closed, and traffic will also be delayed. However, those who live close to the feast grounds near Kennedy Park will have access to "special parking permits" administered by the Fall River Police Department.

Parking permits will be available on August 21 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the FRPD Mobile Command Post in upper Kennedy Park adjacent to the Federal Little League Field.

Residents of Bradford Avenue, Middle Street, Eagle Street, Fountain Street, Mulberry Street and Division Street will be eligible for a parking permit.

When to Expect Feast Celebrations

There are multiple opportunities to experience Fall River's Great Feast of the Holy Ghost of New England.

Wednesday, August 21: 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Thursday and Friday, August 22 and 23: 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Saturday, August 24: 9:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Sunday, August 25: noon to 10 p.m.