Last year marked the first time in 120 years that the Holy Ghost Society of Horseneck in South Dartmouth was unable to hold its annual feast.

With Covid cases lowering and the state lifting restrictions, the food hall was once again filled with eager eaters enjoying sopas and other traditional Portuguese fare on May 29 for a modified version of the dinner, one part of the Moving of the Crown celebration.

Inside the hall, the tables were sectioned off to allow groups to keep their distance, but those who were fully vaccinated did not have to wear a mask now that the mandate is lifted. 

Patrons also had to order food tickets ahead of time.

“It’s a start,” Society Vice President Jason Costa said. “It feels good to do something normal — although I can’t really say what normal is nowadays.” 

Even with the modifications, diners were just glad to be back on the grounds enjoying Portuguese food.

“It’s like the first social event of the season,” New Bedford resident Lorraine Payton said.

She said that she missed the feast “very very much” and that once she and her friends heard the annual dinner was back on, they reserved their spots immediately.

Payton added that the sopa was “just as good” as she remembered.

“It’s always good here,” the New Bedford resident said. 

For those who weren’t as comfortable with gathering, the society also allowed a takeout option for the first time.

“This is trial and error,” Costa said, noting that earlier in the month, there was a test sale of malasadas from the Holy Ghost grounds that “went very well.” 

“We’re hoping that this is as good,” he added. 

Dartmouth resident Lynn Garcia said she was a big fan of the takeout option, adding that she was transporting seven boxes across four stops.

“Lots of families, many stops,” she laughed. 

Society member Jacqueline Phair said that the socially distanced feast marked a good way to “test the waters” before a traditional full feast in 2022, noting that the usual parade and auction had to be on hold once again.

“We’re easing back in,” she said. “We’ll see what happens.”