133rd Freeport/Clarksburg Festa Honors Portuguese Heritage This Weekend
The Portuguese Freeport/Clarksburg Festa returns this weekend for its 133rd edition. The event, held in California’s Delta region, celebrates traditions dating back to 14th-century Portugal. Hundreds of guests will gather for a day of festivities, including a procession and the crowning of a new queen. The Festa began in 1893 as a meeting place for Portuguese immigrants and their families. Over the years, it has grown into a cherished tradition, blending cultural heritage with community spirit. This year’s edition will take place on Sunday, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Maria Fagundes, who moved to California from Portugal, was once crowned queen at Stockton’s Festa shortly after her arrival. Now, her granddaughter, Colette Litwin, will follow in her footsteps. Litwin is set to be crowned the Freeport/Clarksburg Festa senior queen, wearing a replica of Portugal’s Queen Elizabeth’s crown. Before the main event, a fundraising dinner will launch the celebrations on Saturday. Around 700 guests are expected to attend the festivities. Jim Souza, who has been part of the Festa for 67 years, helps manage the historic community hall where the event is held.
The Festa remains a key event for the local Portuguese community, honouring traditions passed down for generations. With a procession, crowning ceremony, and community gatherings, this year’s edition continues a legacy that began over a century ago. The event will take place at the Freeport/Clarksburg community hall on Sunday.
