If you’re looking for an unforgettable cultural adventure this summer, head south to Fall River for one of the largest Portuguese festivals in the world—the Great Feast of the Holy Ghost of New England. For five days, from Wednesday, August 20 through Sunday, August 24, 2025, upper Kennedy Park will transform into a lively celebration of Azorean tradition, food, music, and community.
And the best part? It’s an easy train ride from Boston—making Fall River the perfect weekend getaway.
What Makes the Feast So Special
For more than 40 years, the Great Feast has been bringing people together to honor Portuguese heritage and the Holy Ghost traditions that crossed the Atlantic with Azorean immigrants. Today, it’s grown into a can’t-miss international festival that attracts visitors from all over New England—and beyond.
Expect authentic Portuguese eats (yes, malassadas and chouriço sandwiches included), vibrant parades, folkloric ceremonies, and live entertainment that lasts late into the night.
Day-by-Day Highlights
Wednesday, Aug. 20
- 5 p.m. — Opening blessing of the Soups in Adoration of the Divine Holy Spirit
Thursday, Aug. 21
- 4 p.m. — Food courts open
- 7 p.m. — Official opening ceremony & lighting at Kennedy Park
- Evening entertainment: local and international Portuguese performers keep the park alive until 11 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 22
- 4 p.m. — Food courts open
- 7 p.m. — Blessing and distribution of the pensões (traditional offerings of bread, meat, and more)
- 8 p.m. — Azorean Handicraft Exhibitions open
- Evening entertainment until 11 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 23
- 9:30 a.m. — Bodo de Leite Parade: a colorful ethnographic procession featuring cows, milk, and sweet bread, starting at the Gates of the City and ending in Kennedy Park (don’t miss this one—it’s a visitor favorite!)
- All day — Food, music, family fun at Kennedy Park
- 7:15 p.m. — Night of live performances
Sunday, Aug. 24
- 12 p.m. — Solemn High Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral
- 2 p.m. — Grand Crowning Procession: thousands line the streets as the celebration makes its way back to Kennedy Park
- Evening entertainment until closing at 10 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 25
- 6 p.m. — Closing banquet at the Cultural Center
Insider Tips for Visitors
- Come Hungry — From bifanas to sweet rice, the food courts are loaded with Azorean favorites.
- Don’t Miss the Parades — Saturday morning’s Bodo de Leite and Sunday’s Crowning Procession are iconic.
- Bring Your Dancing Shoes — Every night features incredible live music.
- Plan Ahead for Parking — Streets around Kennedy Park close during the festival. If you’re coming from Boston, skip the hassle and take the train to Fall River’s new depot—then it’s a quick rideshare! More info here.
Why This is the Perfect Boston Day Trip
Hop on the MBTA’s Fall River Commuter Rail line, grab a seat, and in just about an hour and a half you’ll be in the heart of Fall River. From there, it’s a straight shot to Kennedy Park where the festival awaits.
So, whether you’re Portuguese or just Portuguese at heart, the Great Feast of the Holy Ghost is your ticket to an unforgettable cultural experience this summer.
Make it a day trip—or stay the weekend and explore everything else Fall River has to offer.
Learn more about things to do in Fall River at VivaFallRiver.com