The streets of Ponte de Lima filled up yesterday with the official lighting opening, marking the start of the first night of Feiras Novas. This year, the Municipality of Ponte de Lima celebrates these festivities with greater enthusiasm, as it commemorates 200 years of existence.
The highlight of the night began at 9:30 PM, with the emblematic Arruada and Municipal Concertina Gathering. Hundreds of players, coming from various parishes and accompanied by the traditional challenge singing, took over the heart of the town. The beating of the bass drums and the plucking of the concertinas created the unique electric and communal atmosphere that defines this "Night and Day Pilgrimage".
At 10:30 PM, the moment of the official lighting opening took place. The historic centre and the banks of the Lima river came alive, covered by thousands of decorative lamps that drew luminous arches over the streets crowded with residents.
For today, the programme highlights at 9 PM the Marching Band Concerts, at Largo de Camões, as well as the Bagpipe Festival, at Rua Cardeal Saraiva. The Expolima hosts from 10 PM to 4 AM the "Ressaca das Novas" After Party.
