A celebration of Portuguese culture and heritage is planned for this weekend to help mark the 175th anniversary of the arrival of the first Portuguese immigrants in Bermuda.

Festivities will begin at 3pm on Saturday and are expected to continue until midnight at the Casa dos Açores community centre on North Shore, Pembroke.

The 175th Anniversary Commemorations Committee said the free event was “highly anticipated” and was part of a yearlong series to mark the milestone.

A free children’s zone will run from 3pm to 6pm and “a variety of culinary delights” will be on sale throughout the day.

Andrea Moniz-DeSouza, the Honorary Consul of Portugal in Bermuda and chairwoman of the committee, said: “This event promises to be a joyous occasion for all, offering a vibrant celebration of Azorean culture.

“The 175th anniversary commemorations encompass many solemn events and we felt it essential to include an accessible and engaging celebration for everyone.”

She added: “We are particularly excited to announce the forthcoming release of a commemorative book on November 4, 2024, the official anniversary date.

“Authored by Eduardo Medeiros and commissioned by the Azorean Emigrant Association, this publication will chronicle the 175-year history of the Portuguese community in Bermuda.

“The AEA, a non-profit organisation based in the Azores, facilitates cultural exchanges and provides support to Azorean emigrants and their descendants globally.

“This collaborative effort between the 175th Commemorations Committee and the AEA underscores our commitment to preserving and documenting our rich heritage.”

Attendees of this Saturday’s event will be treated to performances by the Vasco de Gama Folklore Group and Caroline Araujo.

The commemorations committee said: “Making their inaugural appearance in Bermuda, the Passos da Bruma Folklore Group from the Azores will present an array of traditional songs and dances, offering a cultural feast for all present.

“A highlight of the event will be the traditional Cantares ao Desafio performed by Carlos Sousa, Jose Pimentel, Helder Pereira and Luis Bettencourt, all visiting from the Azores.

“This cherished Azorean tradition features an improvised poetic duel between two singers, each inspired by and responding to the other’s verses.

“Concluding the evening’s entertainment, Canadian-Portuguese artists Tony Camara and Mike Da Silva will deliver dynamic, contemporary performances, adding an up-tempo flair to the celebrations.

“The event promises an eclectic mix of musical styles, ensuring a memorable experience for all tastes.”

All Bermuda residents are welcome to join the celebrations.