Festas Juninas - Recife and Caruaru

Originally, the June Festivals in Brazil centered around rituals ensuring a good harvest, however after the Spanish arrived they were altered to focus on particular saints. You will find festivities happening throughout the month, but Santo Antonio (June 13th), Sao Joao (June 24th), and Sao Pedro (june 29th) remain the most celebrated.  Sao Joao will most likely be the largest celebration with crowds rivaling the Carnival festival in February.

Festasa juninas is celebrated throughout Brazil which gives you an opportunity to experience many of the regional cultures. Santo Antonio, the patron saint of marriage, gets a unique addition to his festival.  The day before the celebration, June 12th is Dia dos Nomorados (Day of the Lovers), the Brazilian version of Valentines Day.  It is lucky to be married on the 13th, so you may see a lot of weddings as you make your way through Brazil!

Links

• Website: http://www.donabrasil.com/brazilian-folklore/celebrations-in-brazil/festas-juninas.html