Dartmouth Vavó Celebrates 70 Years of Feast, One Malasada at a Time

When it comes to New Bedford's Feast of the Blessed Sacrament, everyone has their favorite tradition.

For 90-year-old Olivia Gonsalves of Dartmouth, it’s malasadas, music and a front-row seat to the folkloric dancers – and nothing was going to keep her from soaking in every bit of it.

A Night of Music, Malasadas and Memories

On the Feast’s busiest night, Saturday, Olivia (Vavó) set her sights on a night out she’d been planning all day. Accompanied by her daughter and granddaughter, Marissa Hart, she arrived early, staked out a prime spot near the stage, and stayed until the last song faded into the night.

Accompanied by her daughter, Suzanne Gonsalves, and granddaughter Marissa Hart, Olivia arrived early, staked out a prime spot near the stage, and stayed until the last song faded into the night. It was a special night out for three generations of women, with Suzanne playing an essential role in helping care for her mother and making sure the family’s traditions live on.

“She was a trooper,” Hart said. “She got there early with my mom, they brought chairs, and she stayed the whole night. She didn’t want to miss a thing.”

A Sweet Moment With New Bedford Police

What made the night even sweeter was a moment of kindness from a New Bedford police officer who had just finished taking a photo of another guest near his motorcycle. Hart asked if he’d be willing to take one with Gonsalves, and not only did he agree, he posed right alongside her and offered to let her hop on the bike for the shot.

READ MORE: New Bedford Feast of the Blessed Sacrament Adds Easy Tipping for a Good Cause

A moment that could’ve been brushed off turned into a treasured memory, made possible by a kind-hearted cop.

Side note: If anyone knows this gentleman, please reach out to Gazelle@Fun107.com so the family can thank him properly.

“She’s 90, she’s spunky, and it just felt right to capture that moment,” Hart said. “The officer was so great with her. He even helped us safely bring the car close so she didn’t have to walk far.”

Olivia’s Roots and Her American Story

Gonsalves’ love for the Feast runs deep.

Originally from Miranda do Corvo, Portugal, she moved to the U.S. at 21 after exchanging handwritten letters with her future husband, who had already settled in Dartmouth and owned Vogue Basket on Dartmouth Street. Since arriving in America, she hasn’t missed a single Feast.

Not Just Malasadas — She Got the Last Nata

Even after a recent heart valve procedure just a month ago, Gonsalves was back on her feet, stronger than ever. She gardens, dances (despite fibbing that she “can’t”), and carefully freezes extra malasadas so she can enjoy them year-round. And yes, she even managed to get her hands on the last nata of the night at Barraca 17 on Sunday.

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“Not kidding, there were only three left!” Hart laughed. “She was so happy.”

Looking Ahead to Portugal and More Adventures

As Gonsalves looks ahead to a family trip to Portugal later this month, the weekend at the Feast served as a celebration of resilience, culture, and the little joys that make life sweet.

“She’s never stopped,” said Hart. “And I think that’s why she’s still going strong.”