Being very religious people, the Portuguese hold traditional gatherings to honor the Holy Spirit and many revered saints. These festivals are a way to keep Portuguese immigrants and their families in touch with their cultural beliefs.

The events usually begin on Saturday evening and start with a gathered prayer. The night continues with live musical entertainment and dancing. Another attraction is the raffles, or “bilhetes,” where there’s a chance to win various prizes.

Delicious Portuguese foods like Favas, or “Fava Beans,” Linguica, and malasadas, or “Fried Dough,” are also available for purchase.

Sunday morning is the more important of the two days that begins with a mass around noon. After the mass, the people walk in a procession to the club, for the nighttime gathering. In these processions, people hold flags and statues of saints and sing songs of prayer.

All proceeds from these festivals go towards the Holy Spirit Committees to plan future festivals. These committees are made up of many volunteers who put endless hours of time and effort into planning and organizing.

So if you are ever wondering what the purpose of these Portuguese festivals is, then wonder no more. The public is invited, so we hope to see you there.

Portuguese Lingua:
Ola- Hello
Bom dia- Good day
Como estas?- How are you?
Adeus- Goodbye
Como te chamas?- What’s your name?
Que horas sao?- What time is it?
Quantos anos tens?- How old are you?
De donde es?- Where are you from?
Te posso ajudar?- Can I help you?
Te amo- I love you
Compraste um carro?- Did you buy a car?
Da-me um beijo- Give me a kiss
Tenho fome- I’m hungry

Portuguese Malasadas (Fried Dough)
Ingredients:
• 1 package yeast (1 T)
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 6 cups flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup melted butter or margarine
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 6 eggs
• 1 quart vegetable oil (to cook)
• Extra sugar (to coat the malasadas)

Procedure:
Dissolve yeast and sugar in the warm water and set aside. Beat eggs. Measure flour into mixing bowl and add salt. Make a well in the flour and pour yeast mixture, eggs, and other ingredients. Beat in circular motion until dough is soft. Cover the mixture and let rise until double. Turn dough over but don’t squish down. Cover and let rise again. Heat oil to 375 degrees and drop dough by teaspoonful into oil and fry until brown. Shake Malasadas in a brown bag with sugar. Best when served hot.