DILI, 07 July 2025 (TATOLI) – The city of Peterborough in the United Kingdom came alive with vibrant cultural performances, entertainment, and culinary showcases from Portuguese-speaking communities including Portugal, Timor-Leste, Angola, Brazil, São Tomé and Príncipe, Cape Verde, Mozambique, and Guinea-Bissau.
Among other culinary showcases, Timor-Leste’s traditional cuisine features dishes such as katupa (rice cooked in coconut leaves), ai-farina (cassava), fehuk-midar (sweet potato), talas (taro), budu-tasi (edible seaweed or sea algae), and a variety of local delicacies.
The occasion marked the first edition of the PALOP & LUSO FEST 25, held over two days.
The festival featured traditional music and dance performances such as Timor-Leste’s LORIKU dance group; Mozambique’s Xipane-Pane troupe; Guinea-Bissau and Angola’s cultural acts; Brazil’s DG Samba Dance Show Carnival; São Tomé and Príncipe’s STP traditional dancers; Cape Verde’s Batukaderas Di Reino Unido; and, Portugal’s Fado music ensemble.
“For two days, Peterborough becomes a hub of entertainment and celebration for eight nations united by the Portuguese language,” Mayor Jude Fox of Peterborough said during the opening ceremony, according to a press release from ETADEP (East Timorese Association Peterborough) shared with TATOLI.
Festival founder Carla Marques emphasized, “The presence of these eight Portuguese-speaking countries gives deep meaning to this event, showcasing not just music and food, but also crafts, dance, history, DJs, community services, and exhibitions. We hope this festival becomes an annual tradition in Peterborough.”
Timor-Leste’s Ambassador to the UK, João Paulo Rangel, expressed joy at seeing the Timorese community come together to promote their country. “The State and people of Timor-Leste wish to express appreciation for the collective effort and creativity of the Timorese diaspora participating in this beautiful festival,” he said.
ETAP President Celso Oliveira extended gratitude to all staff, volunteers, and community members who contributed to the event. “On behalf of ETAP, we sincerely thank everyone who helped bring Timorese cuisine, culture, and information to this festival.”
Before the official ceremony began, each country’s national anthem was played. Attendees enjoyed traditional dishes, local beer, and lively entertainment throughout the weekend.
The inaugural PALOP & LUSO FEST 25 took place on Saturday and Sunday, July 5–6, 2025
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