New Bedford’s 108th Feast Had Three Historic Moments Happen This Year

The 108th Feast of the Blessed Sacrament in New Bedford marked a year of historic firsts, highlighting the festival's evolving and inclusive nature. Three significant events made this year particularly memorable.

National Televised Parade

For the first time, the Feast's parade was nationally televised, showcasing the vibrant culture and rich traditions of the Portuguese-American community to a wider audience. This milestone not only elevated the parade’s prestige but also brought a sense of pride and joy to the local community as they shared their heritage with viewers across the nation. The live broadcast captured the essence of the festival, from the colorful floats to the energetic performances, highlighting the community's unity and festive spirit.

Women Join the Feast Committee

In another groundbreaking moment, women were allowed to join the feast committee for the first time in the festival's history. This change came after a long-standing tradition of male-only membership, reflecting a significant step towards gender equality within the community. The inclusion of women brought new perspectives and ideas, enriching the festival’s planning and execution. The Daughters of Madeira, a group of pioneering women, expressed their excitement and commitment to contributing to the feast's future, marking a new era of inclusivity and collaboration.

DJ Gazelle's Electrifying Performance

Adding to the historic nature of this year's feast, yours truly- DJ Gazelle, became the first DJ to perform in the event’s entire history. This performance was a highlight of the festival, creating an electrifying atmosphere that resonated with attendees. My set was a night to remember, filled with high-energy music that had the crowd dancing and celebrating like never before. The introduction of a DJ brought a modern twist to the traditional festivities, appealing to a younger audience and demonstrating the festival's ability to evolve while honoring its roots.

It was easily the most electric, energetic, and well-received night of my life, capturing the essence of what the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament represents—a celebration of community, culture, and celebration.

The 108th Feast of the Blessed Sacrament will be remembered for its historic firsts that set the tone for future festivals. From national television coverage to breaking gender barriers and introducing new entertainment forms, this year's feast celebrated tradition while embracing change, ensuring its continued relevance and vibrancy for years to come.