Porto's unique tradition: the feast of São João offers music, fun and merriment at Avenida dos Aliados

São João is celebrated on 24th June, but the party begins today, 23 June. Crowds gather all over town to honour São João. There is food, wine, dancing and merriment.

Tonight is São João's big night and musician João Gil will take the stage at Aliados, right after the midnight fireworks to take dancing and singing to the biggest outdoor show hall in the Invicta.

In the meantime, the streets of Porto are filled with joy and excitement to celebrate São João, and every plaza and street corner in Porto serves dances, broiled sardines, "caldo verde" (typical Portuguese soup) topped with cascades and happy people. Join the party by trying your hand at some traditional folklore dancing in town.

João Gil and guest artists Ala Dos Namorados, Ana Bacalhau, Carlão, João Pedro Pais and Tim will be on stage at Aliados to recall big hits, combined with new sonorities.

In addition, there is a special concert by Marta Pereira da Costa, especially set up for São João in Porto at the top of the Avenida dos Aliados, where the artist debuts live with her quintet featuring the unique sounds of the Portuguese guitar.

São João in Porto is the reason why the eve of 24th June is the longest night in town and the celebration does not end at break of dawn; in fact, it continues all day long and at 4pm, as is tradition, the Concert of São João features the Portuguese Symphonic Band.

There will be Metro service all night long, as well as trains and buses. Moreover, the City Hall, as usual, prepared the Park and ride option, which offers low cost parking solutions.

All the shows included in the São João Programme are access free.

Another year, the same rituals and purpose: to honour the Patron Saint of the city.

Do enjoy!