Vila do Bispo will be holding its third Festival do Perceve (Barnacle Festival) this weekend between Friday and Sunday (September 12-14) at the local EB 2,3 São Vicente school.
The festival – organised by the Shellfishermen Association of Vila do Bispo and Costa Vicentina with the support of the local council – will boast the best seafood the municipality has to offer, with a special emphasis, of course, on the goose barnacle.
According to the local council, goose barnacles are of “great importance” to the local economy and cuisine, as many locals still make a living out of catching and selling this shellfish.
Besides the barnacles, there will also be mussels, xerém (a type of corn porridge), cuttlefish and many more local delicacies to enjoy.
Entertainment will also be in full supply, with concerts by local acts taking place every evening.
A documentary entitled Filhos de um Mar Maior, which details the harsh life of the Vila do Bispo’s shellfishermen will be screened throughout the festival, and is another reason to stop by.
“The tides determine the lives of these men, the difficulties they face, the danger they put themselves in and the violence of catching barnacles. There have even been people who have quit good jobs and left the city to dedicate their lives to this. Is it worth it?”, ask the producers of the film, which is also an initiative of the local shellfishermen.
The entertainment programme still includes a zumba dancing class on September 13 starting at 4pm, as well as a promotional campaign for the mackerel, which will feature tastings and a culinary demonstration on September 14 at 6pm.
Admission costs €2 but includes a drink.
Doors open at 4pm on Friday (September 12) and at 2pm on the following days.
by Michael Bruxo
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Discover Vila do Bispo’s treasure of the sea this weekend
