At the end of April there is a large festival held here in Joburg called the Lusito Land Festival. There is a big Portuguese influence here in South Africa and this festival celebrates the culture and tradition of the Portuguese. I really love the diversity here in South Africa and I was really happy we got the chance to attend this last month.

Welcome to Lusito Land

The festival is made up of midway rides, a large music stage and several food and drink stalls. We were there during the day on a public holiday and it was very much a family oriented event, not too crowded and not too wild, just everyone having a really fun time.

Ferris Wheel

Midway

Music Stage

For us, the biggest attraction for these types of events is always the food and drink. The first thing we did was head over to one of the many stands selling Caipirinhas. Now this is actually the national drink of Brazil but it seems this is the official festival drink as well. Usually these are way to strong for me and I really don’t care for them but when in Rome Portugal… These Caipirinhas were quite good and not too strong (probably watered down a bit to help keep things under control).

Let’s Go

Caipirinha

Portuguese cuisine can be difficult for a veggie as it is pretty heavily meat-based but I did manage to find a tasty chickpea curry. If you are a carnivore you may have a difficult time choosing amongst all the grilled offerings.

Portuguese Cheese

Nougat-a bit too sweet for me

Busy at the braai

Sausage

More Meat

 Something Fishy Going on Here

Meat platter for the Carnivore and our friends

My chickpea curry with olives and mushrooms

Farturas, a Portuguese version of churros. I was told these were a must try but no way was I that curious…

Lusito Land was held in 2014 from April 24-May 4. The festival takes place at Wemmer Pan at Pioneer Park in La Rochelle in the south of Johannesburg. It may be too late for this year but add a reminder on your calendar for 2015 so you won’t miss the fun.

Rooster of Barcelos