The island of São Jorge is not far from the other islands of the archipelago in terms of its cultural and popular festivities and animations. Thus, on this island, it is no surprise that it is celebrated in honour of the Holy Spirit, whose celebrations take place on successive Sundays after Easter, accompanied by the coronations and its typical gastronomy, this being one of the most important religious manifestations on the island. Also in this religious context, the island holds a feast in honour of its patron saint, Saint George, in the municipality of Velas, where a procession is held in his honour, as well as various musical performances and exhibitions. Also, in all the parishes of the island, there are many festivities in honour of the prayers of each parish, which are composed with processions, musical aminements, balls and rope bullfights.
On the other hand, the Fajãs of this island attract many locals and visitors not only because of their natural beauty, but also for their pilgrimages and small festivities that reflect the faith and dedication of this people. An example of this is the pilgrimage to the Santo Cristo in the Fajã da Caldeira do Santo Cristo, which is accompanied by a procession to his prayer and respective camp.
In a more profane way, the island of São Jorge is the stage of the Cultural Week of Velas that takes place in the summer, being a great feast that attracts above all the youngest people of this island, but also the nearby islands, Pico, and Faial, which is filled with gastronomic fairs, lectures, nautical events, and musical shows that bring to the island national personalities of music. In the municipality of Calheta, an event of this kind is also held, called the July Festival, which is accompanied by musical shows, ethnographic parades, among many other animations.
Last modified: 16 de February, 2022
