This one’s for you, mom!
2025 Festa President
Darlene ByrneCommunity-Centered Vision
“The Holy Spirit has played an important role in the Domingos Family.”
My parents, Manuel and Yvonne Domingos held a strong devotion to the Holy Spirit and Festa was always a very special time for them. Both dedicated over 30 years of their time as volunteers in the kitchen and the bazaar. Festa was a tradition they both held dear and passed on to their daughters and granddaughters. A tradition rich in heritage, faith, family, friendship, and community. We want to thank all the members of the community who have offered their support and well wishes, it means the world to us to be bestowed such confidence and love. Thank you to all of those who do and have devoted countless hours of their lives to this special one-of-a-kind, holy, and beautiful tradition. Thank you to those who have already stepped up to the various leadership and support roles needed for Festa 2025; the various fundraisers, the bazaar, the kitchen, the parade and countless other crucial roles in putting together this amazing event. It is truly a group effort and our community’s outpouring of support and dedication is amazing! We look forward to seeing everyone at the various fundraisers throughout the year and working with all those who love this tradition as much as we do! As we celebrate the 115th year of this beloved event, we aim to embody the example of Queen St. Isabel in all that we do and are blessed and highly honored to be the 2025 Festa do Espirito Santo host family. It truly takes a village to put this on and Jason, Ava, Olivia and I are beyond proud and honored to be a part of this unique and special village! This one’s for you mom! ❤ Jason & Darlene ByrneMeet Our 2025 Festa King & Queen
We are proud to introduce Ava Marie Byrne and Philip Fernando Mesquita as the 115th Queen and King of the Festa do Espírito Santo.
For Queen Ava Marie, this honor is deeply personal — a tribute to her late grandparents, Yvonne Domingos and grandfather Manuel, who devoted over 30 years to the UPSES community.
Inspired by Queen Saint Isabel and the example of her own family’s selfless service, Ava embraces her role with grace, gratitude, and unwavering faith. She hopes to carry forward a legacy of compassion, unity, and joyful tradition.
King Philip Fernando Mesquita, a lifelong member of the Portuguese community, shares a deep pride in his roots and family heritage. From his earliest years in the Festa parade to sweet memories of baking with his Avó Maria Inez and cooking alongside his Avôs, Philip cherishes every moment of celebration.
As King, he is honored to represent the next generation, carrying forward the values of devotion, generosity, and community.
Together, Ava and Philip embody the heart of this year’s Festa — honoring tradition, celebrating faith, and uniting the community with love and pride.
