The Magic of São João: Porto’s Most Joyful Tradition

Every year on the night of June 23rd, the city of Porto comes alive for São João, one of Portugal’s most iconic and joyful festivals. What starts as a traditional celebration of Saint John the Baptist quickly turns into an all-night street party filled with music, fireworks, grilled sardines, and… plastic hammers. Yes, part of the fun is gently hitting strangers on the head with colorful toy mallets a quirky tradition that somehow brings everyone closer. The streets are packed, especially near the Ribeira and along the Dom Luís I bridge, where people gather to watch spectacular fireworks over the Douro River. Locals release illuminated balloons into the sky, vendors sell manjericos (small basil pots with handwritten poems), and families dance late into the night. It’s chaotic, loud, and completely unforgettable a celebration that blends old traditions with Porto’s unique spirit in the most magical way.