São João do Porto, a secular festival

São João do Porto, a secular festival
Douro region | 07 May, 2019

There is no other city that celebrates São João like Porto. And a cruise on this special day provides you with a privileged view.

FROM THE 23rd TO THE 24TH OF JUNE, THE POPULAR FESTIVAL OF SÃO JOÃO IS CELEBRATED IN THE CITY OF PORTO.

THE SÃO JOÃO IN PORTO

There is no other city that celebrates São João like the city of Porto. As one of the places that attracts the most people, crowds can be seen eating the famous sardines and playing with plastic hammers.

The traditions are many. Hot air balloons are launched, the heads of passers-by are hit with a hammer, the scent of the basil that decorates the street stands is felt and at midnight everyone gathers to enjoy the fireworks display above the Douro river. Music and dancers are everywhere.

São João do Porto has been celebrated for centuries, but only from the 20th century onwards did it become a municipal holiday in Invicta.

 

WHY NOT TAKE A CRUISE?

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the streets and experience São João in a different way, then we suggest our São João Cruise. There are already few places, so we recommend that you hurry to make your reservation.

On a cruise on the Douro, along the riverside, you can have a privileged view right in the center of the Douro River. The trip begins with a port wine served on board, followed by a delicious dinner. As tradition dictates, the menu includes the typical “caldo verde” accompanied by cornbread and a pepper salad. All this while listening to traditional music and sailing through the waters of the Douro River.

While enjoying the traditional Douro flavors, take the opportunity to also enjoy the landscape. Take advantage of the music to take a few dance steps as there will be plenty of animation.

Get ready, because at midnight the fireworks start, delighting thousands of residents and tourists. You will have a privileged view over the fire and the festive city.

Celebrate the longest night of the year with us, and don't forget to bring your plastic mallet!

Fernando Lebres
Fernando Lebres / About the author

Born in the Douro, namely in the village of Galafura where the most beautiful viewpoint in the Douro is located, Monte de São Leonardo de Galafura. I am lucky to have been born in one of the most beautiful regions in the world and I want to share the best of what comes from it. I want to make known to the world its landscape, its customs, the gastronomy and the fantastic wines that go from strength to strength in the mouths of the world.

Venture with me in the best experiences that will awaken all your senses!

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