The Pandemic Is Over and New Bedford Is Ready to Feast Again

As if you needed reminding, New Bedford's first Feast of the Blessed Sacrament since 2019 is almost upon us. With the COVID-19 pandemic in the rearview mirror, preparations for the 106th Annual Celebration of the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament are well underway.

"The committee is very excited and preparing for the greatest and biggest feast ever," Feast Committee Chair Rick Fernandes said. He said the committee "stuck together" through the COVID pandemic and has worked for three years "to make this feast the best ever."

"I'm very happy that the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament is happening this year," said Ward 2 City Councilor Maria Giesta, whose district hosts the feast. She said the annual feast is "an important cultural/family event for our city, our state, and our country."

"After two years of dealing with COVID, everyone is ready for some great food, great music, and Madeira wine," she said.

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Chief Paul Oliveira said the New Bedford Police are ready for the return of the feast.

"Planning on our end is already underway," he said. "The Feast Committee and all City departments that are involved are looking forward to a safe and secure environment for all attendees."

Not all "feast fanatics" will be at Madera Field when the feast begins. My friend Jennifer, who never misses a feast day, will be in Portugal with her family during feast weekend.

"I honestly didn't think they would have it," she said. "Last year, all the restrictions were lifted, people were getting vaxxed, and I didn't think they would have it this year."

Councilor Giesta said she is "certain that the organizers are ready – as you know, the celebration of the feast is over 100 years old, so along with the residents of Ward 2, they are ready and prepared."

The 106th Annual Celebration of the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament runs August 4-7, 2022, at Madeira Field with a full lineup of entertainment planned.