In a town known for fun festivals and events, the annual Provincetown Portuguese Festival, coming June 27-30, 2019, is the one that best captures the heritage of the city.
It is hard to separate Provincetown’s history with that of seafaring, and especially fishing. At one time Provincetown was home to more than 150 fishing schooners, manned primarily by fishermen from Portugal. While the number of fishing boats has dwindled, the annual tradition of blessing the fleet has not. Today it is combined with a four-day celebration honoring the fishing community.
The festival weekend is a warm-hearted fest of live music, dancing, parades, food and games, including more than 30 mostly free events. The events kick off on Thursday evening with “Share our Table, a showcase of Provincetown’s best restaurants in the Seaman’s Bank Tent. Live music and dancing will be included.
Friday activities begin with a Portuguese Soup Tasting and a fishing derby for kids. Also on the agenda are readings by Portuguese writers and poets, a lobster crate race, a lobster bake, music and dancing.
Saturday’s showcase includes Portuguese dancers, a feast of Portuguese food, festival parade, kids entertainment and cookout, an evening FADO concert, and dancing under the stars.
Sunday begins with a Fisherman’s Mass, followed by the annual Blessing of the Fleet as decorated fishing boats parade before the bishop. A traditional band concert, and performance by Ed Sheridan and friends cap off the day.
A full listing of events for the four-day celebration can be found on Provincetown Portuguese Festival website.
Provincetown Portuguese Festival
June 27-30, 2019
Various locations, including Portuguese Square and MacMillan Wharf
Provincetown, MA
508-246-9080
Whalewalk Inn & Spa provides an ideal place to stay for this event—we’re just a short drive away, and provide a quiet place to retreat to when you’re all partied out. Call today to reserve a room or, if you prefer, book your stay online.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE PROVINCETOWN PORTUGUESE FESTIVAL.