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About Us

Portugal Day by SolMar

The Portugal Day Festival by Solmar is a longstanding tradition and has been a symbol of Portugal's rich heritage and culture in Newark, NJ, for nearly three decades. Previously organized by SolMar Restaurant, this festival has been a cornerstone of our community's cultural calendar for 26 years at Ferry and Niagara Streets, Ironbound in Newark, New Jersey. Beginning this year, the cultural and educational aspects of the festival will be led by Nobre Foundation Corp, ensuring the continuation of this cherished tradition.

History

The Portugal Day Festival in Newark, New Jersey, is a historic celebration of Portuguese people, language, and culture. It was first organized in 1979 by the Bernardino Coutinho Foundation and is currently organized by a committee. This festival, held annually to celebrate Portugal Day, has become a significant event that attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Businessman Tony Nobre has been an integral part of the celebrations for almost three decades. He has been honored as "Man of the Year" and "Grand Marshal" by the Bernardino Coutinho Foundation for his contributions. The festival features an impressive parade of clubs and folklore groups, along with other engaging activities.

Since 1994, SolMar restaurant has been actively involved in the Portugal Day celebrations, consistently organizing remarkable events at Ferry and Niagara Streets. Nobre played a pivotal role in expanding the festivities by extending the arches from Five Corners on Ferry Street to Niagara Street. This strategic expansion broadened the party's perimeter, ensuring a more inclusive and vibrant celebration.

Over the years, Tony Nobre has always held a party open to the entire community, bringing famous artistic personalities from Portugal and introducing memorable attractions such as a fashion show and the acclaimed comedian Fernando Pereira.

In 2022, after two years of pandemic-related disruptions, SolMar brought joy back to the Newark community. With the support of the local business community, the festival resumed with the same enthusiasm that has characterized it for decades, showcasing the resilience and dedication of the organizers.

The Portugal Day Festival by Solmar is a longstanding tradition and has been a symbol of Portugal’s rich heritage and culture in Newark, NJ, for nearly three decades.

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