Celebrate New Year’s Day with a Heartwarming Goan Buffet at Old Goa

Motivated by the huge success of the Goan buffett organised on Christmas Day, Marius Fernandes, popularly known as “Goencho Festakar", and Father Felix Lobo have teamed up again to host a unique New Year’s Day buffet on January 1, 2025. This event will take place at the St. Joseph Vaz Canteen, located in the courtyard of St. Cajetan’s Church in Old Goa. The canteen, which is managed by Fr. Felix, has been serving pilgrims and visitors ever since the exposition of St. Francis Xavier’s relics began on November 21st 2024.

Marius shared his vision for the buffett event, saying, “New Year is often celebrated with family and friends. However, there are many people in Goa who find themselves alone on this day despite having the means to celebrate. This buffet aims to bring together such individuals facing loneliness in a warm and inclusive environment.”

A Buffet with a Purpose

The menu for the New Year’s Day buffet shall feature traditional Goan delicacies, promising an authentic culinary experience. Guests attending the buffett will be able to enjoy dishes like Goan Pea Pulao, Xacuti curry, and a variety of pork and beef dishes. There will also be a special New Year’s cake prepared exclusively for the event. The buffet is thoughtfully designed to accommodate everyone, including those with mobility challenges, as the canteen is wheelchair accessible.

Priced at just ₹300 per person, the buffet offers unbeatable value while supporting a noble cause. All proceeds from the buffett will benefit the St. Joseph Vaz Kindergarten School in Collem-Mollem, a school dedicated to tribal children living in forested areas. Funds raised at the event will help cover essential expenses like transportation for the children from remote areas, fuel, and the school bus driver’s salary.

Addressing Loneliness and Building Community

Father Felix Lobo and Marius Fernandes aim to utilize this New Year’s Day Buffet event to create a space for connection and conversation, recognizing the growing issue of loneliness in Goa and beyond. “Loneliness is not just a Western problem—it’s creeping into Goan villages as well. Parents are often left behind alone as children move abroad. This buffet offers a chance for such people to meet, share stories, and celebrate together,” Fernandes explained.

Join the Celebration

The New Year’s Day buffet will begin at 12:30 PM on January 1, 2025. People are encouraged to gather at the St. Joseph Vaz Canteen on New Year’s Day to enjoy a meal that not only satisfies the palate but also supports a meaningful cause. As Fernandes put it, “Let’s start the New Year on a great note, spreading love and peace to the world.”

Come for the food, stay for the camaraderie, and leave with a full heart. Celebrate the spirit of Goa while contributing to a brighter future for the children of St. Joseph Vaz Kindergarten School.

By Catholic Connect Reporter