Lincoln prepares for 103rd annual Holy Ghost Festa

As colorful flags begin to line the streets of Lincoln, residents know exactly what it means: The Holy Ghost Festa is just around the corner. For 103 years, this cherished tradition has served as a symbol of faith, heritage and community, bringing generations together in celebration. Deeply rooted in Portuguese culture, the Holy Ghost Festa honors the Holy Spirit through a weekend of ceremonies, food, music and fellowship. At its heart, the festa embodies the values of charity and compassion, most notably through the longstanding tradition of feeding the community. This practice reflects the belief that no one should go without, and all are welcome at the table. This year's celebration continues its legacy with the introduction of the 2026 royalty. Little Queen Baily Mae Lauri follows in the footsteps of her mother, Breanna Tarantino, and grandmother Sharron Airo Tarantino, as they were also queens, carrying on a proud family tradition. She is also the great-granddaughter of the late Bill Airo, a longtime and dedicated festa member, further reflecting the deep generational ties that sustain the festa. Big Queen Brooklyn Fayeth Matthews also represents a family deeply woven into the history of the celebration. She is the granddaughter of the late Dennis and Valerie Lucas, lifelong members of the organization. Valerie Lucas was instrumental in spearheading the festa's scholarship program – an initiative that continues to support local youth today. Continuing that legacy, Brooklyn's mother, Andrea (Lucas) Matthews, also served as a little and big queen. Current President Jessica Cardoza is serving her third term. A former queen herself, Cardoza brings experience and heart to her role, carrying forward the traditions she once represented. One of her favorite traditions of the Holy Ghost Festa is ensuring everyone is fed, regardless of whether they are able to donate. That commitment continues this year with traditional sopas service beginning Sunday, May 10, at 11 a.m., where all are invited to gather and share in the experience. Festivities will kick off with the carnival, running from Thursday through Sunday, May 7-10. The Festa officially begins Saturday, May 9, with a candlelit procession departing from 664 B Street and making its way to the McBean Park Pavilion. There, the queens will be formally presented, followed by a dance with live music provided by Alma. On Sunday, the crowning of the queens will take place during the 10 a.m. Mass at St. Joseph Church. A procession through town will follow, beginning on A Street and continuing to the McBean Park Pavilion. The celebration concludes with the placement of the Holy Ghost crown in the capelle and the traditional release of doves by the queens. Organizers emphasize the longevity of the Holy Ghost Festa would not be possible without the unwavering dedication of its members and volunteers. For more than a century, families have poured their time, energy and love into preserving a tradition that continues to unite the community. As flags wave proudly throughout Lincoln, they serve as a familiar and meaningful signal: The Holy Ghost Festa is near – a celebration of faith, generosity and a community that continues to show up for one another year after year.