The smell of grilled sardines still lingers in the air. The sky lanterns have already risen, taking many wishes with them. It’s June 24th, and Porto wakes up slowly, digesting the longest and happiest night of the year: São João.
Amid echoes of music, laughter, and toy hammers, there’s one certainty — this was (once again) a celebration to remember. In this article, we look back fondly, revisiting the history and traditions of this unique festivity — and already feel the urge to do it all again next year.
1. A Tradition That Dates Back Centuries
The São João festival in Porto is much more than a date on the calendar. It’s a living heritage with pagan and agricultural roots, celebrating the summer solstice, fertility, and abundance. Over the centuries, the Catholic Church linked these festivities to the birth of Saint John the Baptist, and the city of Porto gave it a unique twist: popular, vibrant, and deeply communal.
Festivities in honor of Saint John have been recorded since the 14th century, but it was in the 19th century that the celebration evolved into what we know today — with street parties, music, fireworks, and life flowing through the streets.
2. Toy Hammers, Leeks, and Lanterns: Symbols of the Night
São João has its own code. And those who live it know it well:
- Plastic toy hammers, successors of the traditional leek, used to joyfully “bless” the heads of others.
- Hot air paper lanterns, released into the sky as silent offerings and wishes for good luck.
- Bonfires in many neighborhoods, where people jump over the flames with courage and superstition.
- Grilled sardines, cornbread, and caldo verde soup, fueling the body while the heart keeps dancing.
- And of course, the most anticipated moment: the midnight fireworks display that lights up the sky over the Douro River, gathering thousands along the banks of Porto and Gaia.
3. São João is Meant to Be Shared
There’s something deeply democratic about São João: no tickets, no invitations. The city belongs to everyone. Neighborhoods fill with music, locals welcome visitors, tourists mix with residents, and the streets turn into spontaneous dance floors.
4. After the Party, a Sweeter Porto
On the 24th, Porto slows down. Cafés fill up gradually. The streets are in no rush. It’s a day to recover — and to savor. A stroll by the Douro, a late lunch, a well-deserved nap. The city shifts into a contemplative, almost conspiratorial mood, as if sharing secrets with those who stayed.
It’s also the perfect time for visitors to discover another side of Porto: quieter, more intimate, yet equally enchanting.
5. Sleep in the Heart of the Festivities: Olivia Singular Houses
Being in Porto for São João is a privilege. Being well located, even more so. The three Olivia Singular Houses properties place you at the center of the action — and in the perfect nook to rest after the party.
Exmo. Hotel
In the heart of the historic center, it’s the ideal starting point to experience São João up close: from viewpoints to illuminated churches, street concerts, and grilled sardines. And afterwards? Just head upstairs and let the quiet slowly return.
1872 River House
With direct views of the Douro and the lanterns crossing the sky, this house turns the São João night into a private show. When you wake up, everything slows — the river glides, the city rests, and you simply take it all in.
Marquês Garden House
If you’re looking to experience São João at the city’s pace but away from the crowds, this is the perfect retreat. A private garden, a cozy atmosphere, and Porto happening all around you — without intruding.
On this June 24th, we leave you with an invitation: wake up slowly, take a deep breath, and relive the night before with a smile. In the heart of Porto, with Olivia as your home.
