What does “São João” mean and where does this tradition come from?

“São João” is the Portuguese name for Saint John (John the Baptist). In Portugal, the Festa de São João is one of the most important and lively folk festivals of the whole year and is traditionally celebrated at the summer solstice (around 23 and 24 June). Originally a pagan festival celebrating the sun, the harvest and fertility, it later took on a Christian character. Today São João in Portugal stands for exuberant street festivals, the smell of grilled sardines, cheerful folk music and the traditional midsummer bonfire. With the festival in Groß-Umstadt, we bring exactly this colourful and warm-hearted tradition to the Odenwald to celebrate the close bond with our partner town Santo Tirso and our large Portuguese community!