IDESST Sausalito Portuguese Cultural Center

The IDESST Sausalito Portuguese Cultural Center (formerly Sausalito Portuguese Hall) was established in Sausalito, California in 1888 as a focal point for Portuguese culture and traditions in Marin County. First and foremost is the Azorean tradition of the "Festa do Espírito Santo" (Festival of the Holy Ghost), which was brought to California by early immigrants from the Azores.

Marin County has a long history of Portuguese immigration, and the Sausalito Portuguese Cultural Center remains a gathering place for descendants of those immigrants seeking to explore and re-connect with their rich Portuguese history, culture and roots. The Sausalito Portuguese Cultural Center continues to serve its members, their families and future generations by preserving and promoting that Portuguese heritage into the 21st century.

The Sausalito Portuguese Cultural Center sponsors fun and exciting events, many of which are intended for the entire family. In addition to the Holy Ghost Festa, the Center sponsors or promotes a bi-monthly Sip & Savor informal social gathering, Portuguese language lessons, and other cultural activities. Of course, no Portuguese event is complete without food and wine and the Sausalito Portuguese Cultural Center is fortunate to have the dedication of a variety of talented hands to deliver Portuguese gourmand culinary explorations, including Manuel Azevedo – the owner and Executive Chef of LaSalette, the renowned Portuguese Restaurant in Sonoma – and YouTube channel chef Michael Santos.