NEWARK -- The Ironbound section of Newark came alive on Saturday with the sound of traditional Portuguese music and the hearty smell of barbecue during the annual Portugal Day Festival. The cultural celebration attracted thousands of festival-goers.



The three-day event which began Friday offers a variety of ethnic food. The most popular traditional foods were grilled sardines, chourico sausages, Portuguese barbecue chicken and sangria.



The festival offered plenty of entertainment including performances by various musicians, Portuguese recording artists and classical guitarists. Most of the live entertainment starts at around 5 p.m. daily.



The family-friendly event had dozens of vendors and carnival type games for children.





Adults and kids could test their soccer skills at the New York Red Bulls BULLevard by running through various drills and games. Members of the Street Team performed freestyle tricks and also interacted with kids.



On Sunday the festival runs from noon to 10 p.m. A Portuguese parade will kick off at 3 p.m. starting at Ferry Street and Wilson Avenue.

Patti Sapone may be reached at psapone@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @psapone. Find NJ.com on Facebook.