24th June St John’s Day
Scot Free III
Frank & Anne
Tue 24 Jun 2025 14:12
Up to the chandlery in search of hydraulic steering fluid ( all bought up in Ponta Delgada by ARC Europe boats! ) none available but he did point us in the direction of possible outlets, with success. Also discovered today and tomorrow are the most important days of the festival, tomorrow all shops are closed as everyone is recovering! Bumped into a Frenchman who’d been next to us in Santa Maria- gave up tips as to timing and viewing of tonight’s festivities.
Shopping done, a few jobs completed, curry made and eaten, at 10pm off we went.
The town was buzzing, all of the route lined with people sitting on camping chairs, people hanging over balconies, waiting in anticipation. Grabbed a beer, found a space, luckily behind a couple of Americans (moved to the Azores many years ago), able to tell us more about it. Over 30 groups, dancing and singing this evening up and down the 2km cobbled route, each accompanied by a brass band. Goes on til 5am. Bands in short supply so some have to play for a couple of different groups- exhausting.
Too many groups for 1 night, so some bumped off via raffle to tomorrow. He was one of them. Groups from East and west coasts of US, several groups from São Miguel and the other islands, a very popular occasion.
The costumes reflected the rich cultural heritage,with vibrant colours and intricate detail.
It was a joyous occasion, all had spent months preparing for this and all sang with such enthusiasm. A lot of twirling of hats as well as skirts.
The footwear here certainly didn’t look very traditional but better than heeled boots or shoes, worn by other groups.
Tomorrow there is bull running, no ropes this time, 5 bulls simply let loose. Decided to pass on that.