By Henry Montalto, Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Brazil is known for its many wonders, a popular travel destination for parties and the famous Carnival, which is a significant money maker for the country. It’s easy to get lost in days of drinking, clubbing, and relaxing on the beach.
However, today you will learn that there is another way, a lot more country and sometimes laid back, in June it’s “Festa-time”. Family parties, drinks, sweets, and much more will be held in this month that many love.
The good times of winter harvest bring the colors of autumn and brisk cool air with it. It’s Festa Junina here in Brazil. A whole different experience for Rio de Janeiro and the country.
The story has it that Festa Junina is a celebration and homage of the three Catholic saints St. John, St. Peter, and St. Anthony. The Festival is celebrated in all corners of Brazil and Northeast Brazil it’s the most popular, and many give thanks for rains during times of drought.
Another story was a celebration by the European cities, honoring St. John. Therefore, a few historians claim the original name was Festa Joanina. Above all, we know the main party was an influence from Portugal and Europe.
It’s noteworthy that Festa Junina’s popularity continues to grow since its creation. Furthermore, in 2011 at the Festival of Saint John in Caruaru, there were incredibly 1.5 million attendees. The city which hosts the one-month long party only has about 370,000 residents.
It seems like Festa Junina is a friendlier and giving time in Brazil. Many kind words with gratitude and thanks. For some, it is the different feel of Rio de Janeiro’s Sexy and Rouge style.
However, we are here to talk less history and more of the party and foods. Peanut and coconut candies to a hot wine and artisanal beers. Popcorn, cakes, and sweets galore.
Typical Festa Junina party foods, from left to right: Almond Cookies, Rice Pudding, Fruit Jelly Cookies, Condensed Milk Bars, Corn Muffins, Corn. In the back of the picture, you can see stuffed bread.Great barbecue: the smell of fresh sweet corn, sounds of country music and kids playing games while you enjoy a nice cider or hot wine. For anyone who’s into autumn or the holidays, this is perfect.
In June and July, families and groups dance dressed up with colonial and farm style clothing. Children and adults paint their cheeks rosy red and wear straw hats and plaid shirts. Bonfires light up the sky, and the smell of smoke on a chilly night is perfect.
It’s a real rural moment in Rio de Janeiro and Brazil that brings many people joy, including tourists from Europe and the United States. Festa Junina is similar to Thanksgiving, imagine Autumn in July, it’s perfect.
A few famous sweets: Pé-de-Moleque (Peanut brittle), a very popular Brazilian sweet with a smoky flavor, or another popular one, sold year-round, is Pipoca caramelada (caramel popcorn).
Maçã do Amor (Caramel Apple), it’s self-explanatory, what kid doesn’t love. Canjica (Brazilian Grits, a pudding) is a delicious sweet made from corn or potato with milk and sugar.
While these sweets are only 4 of the hundreds that exist in the time of Festa Junina, you can easily find yourself packing on the weight if you’re not careful. If hot wine is a no go: don’t worry, Festa Junina is also filled with craft beers. The cooler air welcomes these seasonal treats.
Many parks, schools, colleges, and theaters will be having events all across Brazil. This is the time for you to get to know a different side of Brazil. If you see or hear the music and party, explore and enjoy.
Don’t miss what culture has. Take the time to explore your taste buds and see if this Festa Junina hype is for you. But don’t forget to dress up or even add a little rosy red to your cheeks! If you feel daring, get a pair of overalls.
Any place that looks like a country party know it’s a Festa Junina party. Anytime you see those wacky dances that remind you of the Do si do, remember it’s a Festa Junina party if you see a Festa Junina go on and enjoy.
Explore these parties with our Google My Map. Here you can see all the parties happening within Rio de Janeiro. The map is continuously updated for June and July. We hope you enjoy it.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1rbzlLBdVWPFAec1H7I3gVbVDeKSV7Ui6&usp=sharing