New Bedford Police Banned Items for Madeira Feast

The Feast of the Blessed Sacrament returns to the Madeira Field this weekend. Since the COVID era, there have been a number of both minor and major changes, including opening its doors to women sitting on the board, adding metal detectors, and now, eliminating tickets for food and drink.

SNEAK PREVIEW: 2026 Feast T-Shirts Revealed

Security has always been front and center for New Bedford's largest event, and for good reason. An event of this magnitude needs to be buttoned up.

Security Changes at the Madeira Field

There will be no shortage of police presence or first responders over the four day weekend. The New Bedford Police Department has done a great job communicating new expectations and security measures that will be in place. According to a press release from the police, all guests are subject to screening and search by security personnel and law enforcement. Metal detectors will be in use at all entrances. Refusal to comply with screening or search will result in denial of entry.

What Are the Entry Rules This Year?

Face coverings that conceal an individual's identity are not permitted, except for religious, medical, or other lawful purposes. In addition to the rules above, the police have also released a list of banned items that should not be brought to the feast.

Get our free mobile app

Banned Items to Leave at Home

You can review the list below for what should be left home if you are planning a visit to the Madeira Feast this weekend.

Why You Should Consider Ridesharing

One final safety suggestion would be to Uber in and out of the feast. The Uber will save you the time of parking, the money it will cost for a parking ticket and a tow, and the headaches, fines and potentially even worse things that could happen if you choose to drive home drunk.