Hollister’s annual Portuguese Festival steeped in tradition
The Sociedad Divino do Espirito Santo (SDES) Portuguese Lodge
held its annual Portuguese Festival May 26 and 27.
Hollister’s annual Portuguese Festival steeped in tradition
The Sociedad Divino do Espirito Santo (SDES) Portuguese Lodge held its annual Portuguese Festival May 26 and 27. Hailed as one of the county’s oldest traditions, the event is an opportunity for the Portuguese community to celebrate and take pride in their culture and traditions.
The two day celebration is held every year as a tribute to Isabel, a 15th century queen of Portugal, known for her benevolence and generosity to her poor subjects.
Each year, the crowning of a local queen commemorates the historic Isabel. Kristina Leal, this year’s new queen, walked behind a parade of colorful and high spirited Portuguese youth dressed in ancestral garb in addition to the queens representing other counties.
“We love this ceremony,” said Carmelina Santos, a festival participant. “It’s our tradition.”
The gala also included traditional music, a feast and an auction where a robust loaf of sweet bread was bid and bought for a heart-stirring $340. A handmade red apron with the SDES letters stitched on it was auctioned off at $310.
“The auction is going great,” said Kay Sores, an attendee at the festival.
With the strength of tradition, pride and generosity moving the Portuguese Festival into another year, the tight knit community keeps a 700 year old convention alive in Hollister.
