Santa Maria Island events and festivities you can’t miss
Santa Maria Island celebrates a vibrant array of cultural and religious events, from historical ceremonies to popular music festivals. These events draw locals and visitors alike.
Holy Ghost Festivals (Divino Espírito Santo)
This cherished tradition across the Azores, honor community spirit and religious devotion. Introduced by the Order of Christ and Franciscan monks in the 14th century, the celebrations begin with the ceremonial “crowning” of children with silver-plated crowns adorned with Holy Ghost symbols. The festivities culminate on the seventh Sunday after Whitsun with a grand feast. Traditional bread soup soaked in a rich meat broth, called “Sopa do Espírito Santo,” is freely distributed at “Impérios” (small chapels) across the island.
Festival of Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres in Vila do Porto
In Vila do Porto, the festival of Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres features processions, gatherings, and religious ceremonies. This annual event celebrates devotion and honors the image of Christ, attracting many attendees. This saint is celebrated on the other islands of the Azores, mainly on Ponta Delgada in São Miguel Island.
Nossa Senhora da Assunção (Our Lady of the Assumption)
Every August 15th, the island celebrates the Festas da Nossa Senhora da Assunção, honoring its patron saint. This vibrant day includes colorful processions, gatherings, and festivities, reflecting Santa Maria’s deep cultural and religious heritage.
Maré de Agosto: Azores’ largest music festival
Santa Maria’s Praia Formosa transforms each August into the vibrant Maré de Agosto music festival, the largest music event in the Azores. Held in the last week of August, this festival showcases national and international acts. With a unique emphasis on world music, Maré de Agosto attracts crowds to Praia Formosa’s scenic beachfront.
Local markets and cultural highlights
Throughout the summer, Santa Maria hosts smaller festivals, fairs, and markets celebrating its agricultural heritage. These events showcase local handicrafts and Santa Maria’s traditional foods. Fruit markets are also very common in this and all the islands of the Azores.
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