Mark your calendar, the annual Provincetown, Massachusetts, Portuguese Festival is coming June 22-25, 2017, and based on past celebrations, this is one you won’t want to miss.
The festival, which draws visitors from around the world, takes over the entire town as it celebrates its Portuguese culture and seafaring heritage. It’s a four-day, family-friendly party that includes more than 30 events and activities, many of them free. Look for parades, traditional foods, live music, dancing, games, and lots more.
One special event is the Blessing of the Fleet on Sunday. Fishing was integral to life here in Provincetown, and years ago, before a fleet would depart on its long and often dangerous journey, the local bishop would bless the vessels and crew. Today, the ceremony caps off the festival. Following a procession through town, boats decked out for the occasion pass by the Bishop to receive his blessing for a safe and prosperous year.
A complete schedule of activities for all four days can be found on the Provincetown Portuguese Festival website, but listed below are a few of the highlights.
Provincetown Portuguese Festival
Provincetown, Massachusetts
June 22 – 25, 2017
508-246-9080
Thursday
5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., Compartilhe Na Nossa Mesa, a showcase of Provincetown dining
8:00p. m. – 10:00 p.m., Dancing to the music of New Beach Band
Friday
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., Portuguese Writers and Poets Read at the Harbor Lounge
3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., Music, dancing, and entertainment in the Square
5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Lobster Bake at the Bas Relief
Saturday
11:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m., Portuguese Food Court
3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., Portuguese Festival Parade
7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., Fado Concert
Sunday
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m., Procession followed by the Blessing
Plan to stay with us for the weekend. You’ll be close to the action— Provincetown is just a 30-minute drive away—and have a cozy place to come home to at night.