Harrison’s Centro Romeu Cascaes Hosts Two-Day Portugal Day Celebration

The vibrant spirit of Portugal will fill the streets of Harrison once again as the Centro Romeu Cascaes Portuguese American Community Center (CRC) prepares to host its annual Portugal Day Celebration on Saturday, May 31, and Sunday, June 1, 2025. The two-day event is one of Harrison’s most cherished cultural traditions, uniting the local Portuguese-American community and welcoming residents of all backgrounds to join in the festivities.

Located at 14 North Frank E. Rodgers Boulevard, the CRC will be the central hub for delicious Portuguese cuisine, lively music, and traditional performances celebrating Portugal’s rich heritage and national pride.

Saturday, May 31 – Food, Music, and Fellowship

The festivities kick off at 12 noon on Saturday at the CRC and continue until 10 p.m. Guests can indulge in authentic Portuguese dishes, including barbecued sardines flown in from Portugal (frozen while fresh), a seasonal delicacy deeply rooted in Portuguese culinary tradition. Also on the menu are Portuguese barbecue chicken, febras (pork steaks), and French fries (a kid’s favorite), accompanied by refreshing beverages like homemade sangria, beer, sodas, and water.

Setting the tone for the evening, Touch of Class DJs will spin a lively mix of music from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., providing the soundtrack to a spirited day of food, drink, and camaraderie.

Sunday, June 1 – A Day of Pride and Tradition

Sunday’s celebration begins with a solemn Portuguese Mass at 9 a.m. at Holy Cross Church, located at 323 Harrison Avenue, directly across from Harrison Town Hall. At 10 a.m., the community will gather at Harrison Town Hall (318 Harrison Avenue) for the Portuguese Flag Raising Ceremony, a symbolic expression of heritage, unity, and respect for the contributions of Portuguese-Americans in Harrison and throughout the nation and world.  The Portuguese did discover 2/3’s of the World.

Portuguese Flag Raising Ceremony 2024

Following the ceremony, guests are invited back to the CRC for a light breakfast at 11 a.m., which includes an art display created by the young students of the Portuguese language school, leading into a full afternoon of cultural festivities. From 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., the CRC will once again serve its popular food and drinks, while Touch of Class DJs return to provide music throughout the afternoon.

As is tradition, the Rancho Camponeses do Minho, a beloved Portuguese folkloric dance group which was founded in Harrison NJ, is expected to perform in front of Town Hall after the flag-raising ceremony, bringing the rhythms and movements of Portugal’s northern regions to life in colorful costume.

A Community Leader and Cultural Pillar

The event is organized by the Centro Romeu Cascaes Portuguese American Community Center, led by CRC President Delfim Sarabando, who also serves as a Councilman for Harrison’s 3rd Ward. Under his leadership, the CRC continues to be a cultural cornerstone in West Hudson, offering programs and events that preserve and promote Portuguese culture for future generations.

A Celebrated Tradition

Portugal Day in Harrison draws local dignitaries, elected officials, and representatives from the Portuguese government, underscoring the strong ties between the Town of Harrison and Portugal. The event is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Portuguese-American community, whose contributions continue to shape the cultural fabric of the region.

Rancho Camponese Do Minho in Harrison NJ (Youth Group Shown)

All are welcome to attend the celebration, which promises flavor, festivity, and tradition in the heart of Harrison.

For more information, visit the CRC Portuguese Community Center, check out their Facebook page, or our Community Discussion Board.

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