Festa de São João – Porto’s Night of Balloons, Sardines, and Plastic Hammers
- Samira
- Sep 12
- 3 min read
When the summer solstice arrives, Porto turns into one of the liveliest places in Europe. The streets, squares, and riverbanks come alive with laughter, smoke from barbecues, balloons lighting up the sky, and the rhythmic tap of plastic hammers. This is the Festa de São João – Porto’s most beloved midsummer celebration.
A mix of pagan traditions and Catholic devotion, São João is a festival of joy, food, music, and fireworks. Whether it’s your first time in Porto or you’ve been before, this night guarantees memories you’ll never forget.
Discover with us:
The Sky Lanterns of São João
As night falls on June 23rd, Porto’s sky glows with hundreds of paper balloons and lanterns drifting into the night. Lighting one and watching it float away is said to bring good fortune for the year ahead. It’s a breathtaking moment—especially when seen from Ribeira or along the Douro River.
Sardines on Bread: The Taste of Summer
The heartbeat of São João is the smell of sardines sizzling on grills. Families, restaurants, and even street vendors set up barbecues, serving sardines on bread or alongside potatoes and peppers. Add a glass of vinho verde or cold beer, and you’re tasting the soul of Porto’s summer.
Other favorites include caldo verde (kale soup), bifanas (pork sandwiches), and plenty of sweet treats sold in the squares.
Why Everyone Hits You with Plastic Hammers
One of the most unique traditions? Getting tapped on the head with a colorful plastic hammer. It may sound odd, but since the 1960s, these playful hammers have become a festival icon. Don’t worry—it’s lighthearted fun! Expect strangers to smile as they bop you on the head.
Fireworks Over the Douro
At midnight, all eyes turn to the Dom Luís I Bridge. A spectacular fireworks display explodes over the Douro, mirrored in the river below. Thousands gather on the Ribeira, Vila Nova de Gaia, and along the riverbanks to watch. It’s the most magical moment of the night.
Love Poems and Basil Plants
Another charming tradition is gifting manjerico—small basil pots decorated with colorful paper flags and love poems. These are exchanged among couples, friends, and family as a symbol of affection and luck. It’s a sweet contrast to the noisy hammers and fireworks.
Tips for Experiencing Festa de São João
✨ Arrive early if you want a good spot by the river for fireworks.
✨ Wear comfy shoes—you’ll walk (and dance!) all night.
✨ Stay safe, but relax—São João is family-friendly and welcoming.
✨ Join the locals! Eat sardines, release a balloon, and grab a hammer.
A Night You’ll Never Forget
The Festa de São João is Porto’s heart and soul on full display. A night of ancient traditions reborn in modern ways, where strangers become friends under fireworks and lanterns. From grilled sardines to glowing skies, it’s a festival that embodies joy, community, and the magic of Portuguese summer.
If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, make sure to spend June 23rd in Porto—you’ll leave with memories as bright as the fireworks over the Douro.
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