Festa 2012 celebrated in Ludlow

LUDLOW, Mass. (WWLP) - Labor Day weekend is a traditional weekend for fairs and festivals in Western Massachusetts.

And the crowds came out for the first night of Festa 2012 at our lady of Fatima in Ludlow.

Friday night is considered a quieter night when the locals show up to celebrate Portuguese/ American culture.

"This is always a big weekend for all of us. Pride and love of the blessed mother that we celebrate Sunday. And just get to see a lot of family that comes in from all over the country, and even Canada,” said Irene Pereira of Ludlow.

Festa features traditional Portuguese food, folk dancing, and an open-air mass Sunday followed by a Candlelight procession.