Great start to the Portuguese Food Fair

Saturday 27 August 2016

Thousands have been flocking to the People's Park over the last few days for a taste of Portugal.

The annual Portuguese food fair is back showcasing Portuguese and Madeiran food, music and dancing.

One of the organisers Jason Maindonald said: "We thought we’d have a soft start on Thursday to get the stallholders settled in and ready for the onslaught of people coming but we ended up with thousands and had a fantastic time.

"We were all a bit shocked because it’s not normally like that but I think everybody’s really excited about this year’s Festival.

"This event is so supported by the whole community, not just the Portuguese. It’s such a family orientated event, there’s the funfair for the children, the food, the sangria and the wine for the adults and it’s always had that wonderful family feel.

"One of the festival organisers Carlos Lunes was telling me that they have festivals, about one a week back home and it felt very similar to those in Madeira."

The Fair is on throughout the long weekend with plenty of food stalls and lots of entertainment. Mr Lunes will also be fundraising this weekend to help those affected by the severe and tragic wildfires that burnt for days in and around Madeira's capital Funchal earlier this month.

Mr Maindonald said: “The weather is going to be fantastic this weekend, what better way to spend it, come down have some sangria, some espetatas and some fishcakes and finish is off with some churros!"