Security takes front seat at New Bedford Portuguese Festival

By Ana Bottary 
Abottary@abc6.com
@anabottary 

The feast of the blessed sacrament in New Bedford is an event that attracts thousands of people each year. For live entertainment, Portuguese cuisine and of course Madeira wine. But with large crowds come safety concerns. 

"Security is the one overseeing item of the entire feast. We are very concerned," says Ed Camara Jr. Director, PR, Club S.S. Sacramento. 

Friday afternoon, New Bedford Police walked the entire perimeter of the grounds before opening, as they do each day. Organizers tell us there is a police presence at each of the 4 gates guest enter through. 

"Plus additional large number of police upsers straw the grounds some in uniform some non-uniform just to make sure that everything goes smoothly," says Camara. 

With alcohol available to purchase, another concern is underage drinking. In order to receive a drink a guest must provide ID proving they are 21 years or older and then that ID is scanned. Once approved they receive a wristband. 

In light of recent terror attacks around the world, Feast staff as well as police continue to strictly enforces the rules. 

"We don’t allow coolers we don’t allow large knapsacks or backpacks and it’s worked out well," adds Camara. 

Guests we spoke with say they respect the rules, and appreciate the security measures taken. 

" I take very much pride in the place that they’re going to have enough security to monitor everybody especially when we’re bringing children to the events and I felt safe knowing that," says Shrayna Faith. 

"Security here has always been more than an abundance got officers everywhere they always make everyone feel safe everyone and their families to come down with their families and enjoy the feast," adds Nelson Rocha. 

(C) WLNE-TV / Abc6 2016