Magusto Festival – 2025
A Celebration of Community, Culture, and Gratitude
Magusto Festival 2025 was a truly unforgettable celebration, filled with warmth, unity, and the beautiful spirit of our community. Spread across three special days, the event brought together residents, families, supporters, and friends to honour tradition and share moments of joy.
Gala Evening – 21 November 2025
The festivities began with an elegant Gala Evening on 21 November, generously sponsored by Academia do Bacalhau Johannesburg. Their support made it possible to host a night filled with sophistication, heartfelt speeches, and meaningful connections.
Magusto Celebration – 22 & 23 November 2025
The heart of the weekend came alive on 22 and 23 November with our traditional Magusto festivities. Lively and festive, yet tinged with nostalgia for our residents, the atmosphere was buzzing with laughter, music, and, of course, the unmistakable scent of freshly roasted chestnuts over open flames – a favourite gathering point for catching up with friends.
The festival featured delicious traditional foods lovingly prepared by our dedicated kitchen staff and selfless volunteers, including flame-grilled chicken, prawns, espetadas, pregos, bolo do caco, frituras, and more.
Visitors explored a variety of stalls selling fashion jewellery, handcrafted perfumes and home scents, ice cream, handbags, and toys. Our friends from Place A Pup brought friendly adoptable puppies, adding a playful touch to the weekend. The Lar Santa Isabel Thrift Store showcasing donated items that directly support Lar Santa Isabel, and the SKY Group offered arts and crafts created by our talented residents, encouraging attendees to support fundraising while discovering unique treasures.
The SKY Group continues to be an inspiring initiative, a reminder that creativity thrives at every age. I look forward to seeing the founders explore new ways to showcase even more of our residents’ hidden talents. For more about the Sky Group, click here.
Entertainment & Activities
Live entertainment included performances by Diana De Sousa, Max More, Rui Policarpo, Fatima Nerry, Katia De Vallier, DJ Rix, Ruben Pinto, DJ Paul Luis, as well as the vibrant dance ensembles Rancho Poveiros, Rancho APF, Rancho Terras Do Norte, Rancho Troyville/NAC, and the Portuguese Dance Society. Raffles and auctions added extra excitement while supporting Lar Santa Isabel and the Portuguese Welfare Society.
A Special Time for Residents
For our residents, the weekend is a chance to feel seen, celebrated, and loved. Lunch in the ‘Big White Tent’ provides a change of scenery and a special outing, while attending the festival with family makes them feel acknowledged and cherished. Witnessing three or even four generations seated together around a table is a priceless reminder of the bonds that tie our community together.
Our Heartfelt Thanks
We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who attended and supported the event:
- All volunteers who worked tirelessly
- The team that organised and prepared the festivities
- Our donors, sponsors, and partners who make events like this possible
- The security team for keeping everyone safe
The funds raised will continue to support the ongoing needs of Lar Santa Isabel and other NPOs supported by the Portuguese Welfare Society may also benefit. Every contribution helps build a stronger, kinder, and more united community.
Visit Our Website
For more photos, updates, and more about Lar Santa Isabel, please visit: portuguesewelfaresociety.co.za
Thank you once again for being part of Magusto 2025. Together, we continue to celebrate tradition, community, and joy.
Written by Mary Ann, a volunteer at Lar Santa Isabel, reflecting my observations and experiences of Magusto 2025.
